Legendary Nogales head coach Ray Molera passed away on Monday morning according to reports from his former players.

Molera’s squad was a dominating team. It was what we call a “dynasty" today.  He coached the Nogales boys to three state championships and two second place finishes between 1976 and 1983.

“Thank You, Coach for the discipline you provided for us to become tough basketball players and to be tough in life,” his former standout player Jorge Leon wrote.

“Today the Basketball Gods are taking not only a great Coach but an even better Human Being. Love you, Coach. Never ever forget you.”

Leon was part of Molera’s back-to-back state championships in 1982 and 1983. He is now an assistant coach at Sunnyside.

 

Ray Molera File

1976: 4A Championship

1978: 4A Runner-up

1981: 4A Runner-up

1982: 4A Championship

1983: 4A Championship