Boston, MA, January 15, 2026
The Malden Catholic boys basketball team has made headlines this season with an impressive 10-0 record, showcasing exemplary teamwork and adaptability amidst challenges. Following coach John Walsh’s departure, interim coach Mark Garrity has guided the team through a transition to Division 1 competition. The team’s success not only elevates school spirit but also underlines the importance of character development and community engagement in high school sports. The Lancers’ achievements resonate deeply within the athletic landscape of Boston, inspiring the next generation of players.
Boston, MA
Lancers Light Up the Hardwood: Malden Catholic Dominates Division 1
Malden Catholic’s boys basketball team is making a resounding statement in the Massachusetts prep sports scene, blazing a trail with an undefeated record and showcasing the power of adaptability and collective effort in a new competitive landscape.
The energy surrounding high school sports in Boston, MA, is always electric, but this season, the buzz around Malden Catholic’s boys basketball program is reaching new heights. After navigating significant changes, the Lancers have achieved a perfect 10-0 record, a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence and the enduring values of teamwork and discipline. Their success not only uplifts the school community but also highlights how dedication on the court can inspire an entire city.
In a season often defined by individual star power, Malden Catholic’s story is a compelling narrative of collective strength. The team’s remarkable start reflects the profound impact of hard work and sportsmanship, foundational elements that cultivate not only winning teams but also responsible young leaders. This journey is more than just a string of victories; it’s a demonstration of character, perseverance, and the belief that sustained effort leads to genuine opportunity, resonating deeply within the vibrant Boston MA high school basketball community.
A Seamless Transition in Leadership
The current season began with a notable change in leadership for the Malden Catholic Lancers. Head coach John Walsh, who previously guided the program to an impressive three consecutive Division 2 state championships from 2022 to 2024 and another state final appearance, stepped down on December 11, 2025, just before the start of the new season. His five-season tenure saw the Lancers achieve a commanding 91-19 record.
Stepping into the interim head coach role was Mark Garrity, a veteran assistant with 15 years of experience within the Malden Catholic basketball program. This seamless transition underscores the stability and strong foundation built within the athletic department, allowing the team to maintain its focus and drive despite the shift at the helm. It speaks volumes about the preparedness and depth of leadership cultivated at Malden Catholic, where continuity is prioritized for student-athlete development.
Rising to the Division 1 Challenge
This 2025-26 season marks a significant transition for Malden Catholic, as the team moved up to compete in Division 1. This elevation to a higher tier of competition brought with it considerable challenges, including substantial roster turnover. Former standout player Matt Gaffney graduated, and key contributors Abe and Mamadou Camara transferred. Despite these changes, the Lancers have not merely adapted; they have thrived, proving their mettle against top-tier opponents.
Their current perfect 10-0 record is a clear indication of their successful navigation of these new challenges. This remarkable performance places them at the forefront of Massachusetts prep basketball, demonstrating that a commitment to fundamental principles and a tenacious team spirit can overcome even the most daunting competitive hurdles.
Unbeaten on the Court
The Malden Catholic boys basketball team has established itself as a dominant force in the ongoing season, achieving an impressive 10-0 record. Their consistent performance has earned them a prominent position in the state’s athletic conversation, securing the 3rd spot in the Massachusetts Boys Basketball (2025-26) Rankings. They were also listed as the 4th ranked team in the state in late December 2025, following Bridgewater-Raynham, Attleboro, and Beverly.
Recent victories include a hard-fought 67-62 win against St. John’s Prep High School on January 13, 2026, and a 58-54 triumph over St. John’s High School on January 9, 2026. These wins highlight the team’s ability to perform under pressure and secure crucial victories, reflecting a culture of resilience and determination that is central to their success. The players demonstrate a collective dedication to disciplined play and strategic execution, allowing them to consistently outperform their rivals.
Building Character Beyond the Game
The Malden Catholic athletic philosophy extends far beyond winning games, emphasizing the holistic development of its student-athletes. The coaching staff operates with the clear expectation that they are teachers first, tasked with imparting not only technical skills but also vital life lessons. This approach instills a strong sense of self-discipline, sportsmanship, and personal responsibility in every player.
Athletes are encouraged to compete with intensity and fairness, learning the value of persistence and the critical role of teamwork. Coaches serve as crucial role models, guiding young men to navigate challenges and demonstrate appropriate behavior both on and off the court. This comprehensive focus on character development ensures that student-athletes are prepared not just for future athletic endeavors but for success in all aspects of their adult lives. This ethos of growth and accountability is a cornerstone of Malden Catholic’s enduring impact.
Community Pride and Engagement
The success of the Malden Catholic basketball program generates significant enthusiasm and pride within the local community. Victories on the court translate into heightened school spirit and robust fan engagement, fostering a sense of collective identity. The visible achievements of the Lancers inspire younger athletes and encourage greater participation in youth sports programs throughout Boston.
This success also creates market-driven opportunities for local sponsorships, allowing businesses to align with a winning and character-driven program. Such partnerships provide vital resources for athletic programs while strengthening the bond between the school and its surrounding community. The passionate turnout at games, cheered on by dedicated fans, visibly boosts morale and reinforces the positive impact of high school athletics on community cohesion. This symbiotic relationship ensures that Malden Catholic’s achievements resonate deeply, creating a lasting legacy of engagement and support.
Looking Ahead for the Lancers
Malden Catholic’s sensational start to the season has set a high standard for success in Massachusetts prep basketball. Their undefeated 10-0 record, achieved amidst a transition to Division 1 and a change in coaching, is a powerful testament to the dedication, resilience, and teamwork embedded in the program. As the season progresses, the Lancers will continue to embody the core values of hard work and personal responsibility, aiming to build on their impressive foundation.
We encourage all HEREboston.com readers to experience the excitement of high school sports firsthand. Attend a Malden Catholic game, cheer on these dedicated student-athletes, and witness the positive impact of competition and community spirit. Your support directly strengthens our local athletic programs and helps cultivate future leaders. Stay tuned to HEREboston.com for more inspiring stories from the courts and fields of Boston MA high school basketball and Massachusetts prep sports.
Key Features of Malden Catholic’s Boys Basketball Success
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Current Record | Perfect 10-0 undefeated streak. | State-level |
| Massachusetts Ranking | Ranked 3rd in Massachusetts Boys Basketball (2025-26) Rankings. | State-level |
| Coaching Transition | Mark Garrity assumed the interim head coach role after John Walsh stepped down before the season. | School-level |
| Divisional Move | Moved up to Division 1 for the 2025-26 season. | State-level |
| Program Philosophy | Emphasizes character, discipline, sportsmanship, teamwork, persistence, and responsibility. | School-level |
| Community Impact | Generates school pride, fan engagement, and fosters local sponsorships. | Local-level |
Now Happening on X
- @mass_basketball (January 14, 2026): Malden Catholic secured a 67-62 victory over St. John’s Prep, highlighted in today’s top scores alongside other key Massachusetts high school basketball matchups. View on X
- @LancerHoop (January 14, 2026): Malden Catholic’s boys basketball team defeated St. John’s Prep 67-62, with Aboubakar Nimaka leading with 21 points and 11 rebounds, improving their record to 10-0. View on X
- @BConn63 (January 12, 2026): Updated Boston Herald rankings place Malden Catholic at No. 1, still perfect at 9-0, with Central Catholic climbing to No. 2 in Massachusetts high school boys basketball. View on X
- @mass_basketball (January 10, 2026): Top scores include Malden Catholic’s 58-54 win over St. John’s, contributing to their undefeated streak in Massachusetts prep basketball. View on X
- @MCathletics1 (January 10, 2026): Malden Catholic’s boys hockey team earned a 2-0 shutout win over Boston College High in Catholic Conference play, showcasing strong defense and key assists. View on X
- @tgsports (January 15, 2026): St. John’s dominated Malden Catholic 6-0 in boys hockey, with the Pioneers rolling to an easy victory in Malden. View on X
- @XBHSBBall (January 10, 2026): Xaverian Brothers rallied in the fourth quarter to defeat St. John’s Prep, led by Connor Larnard’s 20 points, in a strong showing for Boston-area high school basketball. View on X
- @MassLiveHS (January 10, 2026): A buzzer-beating slam dunk sealed a road win for the Knights, adding excitement to recent high school basketball action in Massachusetts. View on X
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