By Layna Delgado
Steve Turner didn’t just take over one of the most prestigious high school basketball programs in the country. He stepped into it with purpose, humility and a clear vision.
On March 31, 2025, Turner was named head coach of Montverde Academy’s boys basketball program, beginning a new chapter after spending 26 years at Gonzaga College High School in Washington, D.C. Despite the weight and expectations that come with leading a national powerhouse — especially the No. 1 team in the country — Turner says the transition has been nothing but smooth.
“It’s been unbelievable,” Turner said. “Having a community, administrators, and people who surrounded us and welcomed me and my staff with open arms made the transition easy. The ability to help our young men grow as student-athletes has made everything seamless.”
Turner brings with him a philosophy that has defined his success throughout his career: “We over me.” That mindset has quickly taken hold at Montverde, especially during a strong recent stretch that has validated his approach.
“Look at what we’ve done in this last stretch of about eight games,” Turner said. “We’ve beaten six of the top 20 teams in the country, and the other two losses were close games where we were right there with a chance to win. When our guys play together and play for each other, it gives us an opportunity.”
When discussing his decision to leave Gonzaga, it was clear it was not an easy one. Turner built a legacy there, compiling a remarkable 497–176 record and becoming one of the most respected high school coaches in the nation. However, he felt the timing — and the school calling — was right.
“It was a hard decision to leave,” Turner admitted. “I’d been there for 26 years, but I truly believe God had a plan for me to come to Montverde and coach in Florida, and I chose to follow that opportunity.”
Despite his extensive résumé, Turner remains uninterested in personal milestones. When asked about his hopes to replicate his success at Montverde, his focus stayed firmly on the team.
“I don’t chase records,” Turner said. “Those don’t matter to me. What matters is winning and producing a good team of players.”
Ironically, Turner reached a milestone on Dec. 19, earning his 500th career victory — a moment he downplayed but still appreciated.
“It was nice to celebrate it with a new team surrounded by new people,” he said.
Turner’s influence extends well beyond the high school level. He has coached with USA Basketball, serving as head coach of the USA Men’s Nike Hoop Summit Team and leading the Men’s Junior National Select Team to victory over the World Select Team. That success has earned him an impressive list of accolades, including multiple Coach of the Year honors at the conference and national levels, highlighted by National Gatorade Coach of the Year in 2016 and numerous honors around the DMV.
Turner also offers a grounded perspective on NIL opportunities in today’s evolving basketball landscape, where young athletes are often focused on money.
“I tell players that it will come to you. You don’t have to chase it,” Turner said. “Look at Cooper Flagg. He played for us, went to Duke, and made more in his first year at Duke through NIL than he did in his NBA contract. Opportunities will come.”
As the season continues, Turner’s goals remain simple and focused.
“My goal for the rest of the season is to make the championship game and win,” Turner said, a reminder that for him, every game stands on its own.
For Steve Turner, Montverde Academy isn’t just another stop in his decorated career. It’s a new beginning — built on unity, belief, and a commitment to something bigger than himself.
Photo by River Mitchell/The Student