Jim Reames, Basketball Coach at Foothill, Resigns Position

Jim Reames, one of the top strategic basketball coaches in Orange County over the past 15 years, resigned Monday at Foothill High School.

Reames, 48, compiled a record of 236-138, won two Century League titles and had teams qualify 12 times for the Southern Section playoffs. Reames’ 1990-91 team advanced to the quarterfinals of the Division III-AA playoffs.

“It was just time,” Reames said. “I knew when I came back from the Final Four. Usually, I’m fired up about getting things started for the summer and anticipating the next season. I lost that enthusiasm, and I’ve always felt that if you don’t put 100% into coaching, it’s time to get out.”

Reames is only the third basketball coach at Foothill since the school opened in 1966. He quickly established himself as one of the most respected ones in the county, producing teams that averaged 16 victories per season during his tenure.

Among the top players Reames coached are forward Rich Thomas, the county’s scoring leader in 1981; guard Rich Dutrisac, the most valuable player in the Century League in 1983, and Derek Johnson, an outstanding three-point shooter in 1986.

“I had some fine players and coached in some great games,” Reames said. “It’s been a lot of fun, but I’m looking forward to having more free time. I just bought a home in Aliso Viejo, and I plan on spending some time working around the house.”

Reames will continue to teach social studies and physical education at Foothill.