The WIBCA is deeply saddened by the passing of our current board member and former President, Tim Kelly. Tim’s legacy as a coach in the state of Washington is unparalleled. With 531 combined career wins at both Curtis and Lincoln High Schools, Tim compiled more wins than any other boys 4A coach in the history of the state. While at both schools, Tim led his programs to a combined five state championships, an extraordinary accomplishment made even more remarkable by achieving that success at two different schools.
Tim’s coaching excellence is reflected in his numerous Coach of the Year honors, including State Coach of the Year recognition. In 2011, he was proudly nominated by Washington for the National Federation of High Schools National Coach of the Year award. His leadership extended beyond the sidelines, coaching multiple All-State games, the Northwest Shootout, and representing Washington at the National High School Basketball Coaches Association tournament in 2014. Tim was a 2009 WIBCA Hall of Fame inductee. His legacy of achievement culminated in his induction into the City of Tacoma Sports Museum Hall of Fame, a testament to his lasting impact on the sport and his community.
As a current board member and past president, Tim’s selflessness shines through his unwavering commitment to WIBCA events, his leadership spanning more than 30 years, and his readiness to take on any challenge to advance the sport of high school basketball.
WIBCA offers our sincere condolences to Tim’s wife, Gini, his daughters, Annie and Katy, and the entire Kelly family. We also extend our heartfelt thoughts to Tim’s former players, assistant coaches, colleagues, and friends. During this difficult time, please know that the Washington basketball community mourns alongside you and celebrates the remarkable legacy Tim leaves behind.