Students hung a banner over the their section of the stands after Gilbert Christian’s 61-38 victory over Coronado Thursday, dubbing the area “Keener’s Corner.”

It is a fitting tribute to basketball coach Kurt Keener, who won his 800th career game and was selected to coach the West in the 2019 McDonald’s All-American game in March.

“It’s the principle of the harvest: you reap what you sow,” said Athletic Drector Adam Rasmussen. “He’s definitely just sewn kindness and strength and goodness into this world, and we are receiving the benefits.”

Keener has had four All-Americans in his years coaching, all from Detroit Country Day where he coached before moving to Arizona in 2013. Chris Webber, Shane Battier, Ray McCallum and Amir Williams appeared in a tribute video congratulating Keener on his achievements.

“To hear those guys tell the impact I’ve had on their life, they don’t know the impact they’ve had on MY life,” said Keener.

“The milestone is something that encompasses a whole lot of people, the coaches, the players, a whole lifetime of memories. McDonald’s is kind of the pinnacle of success. I’ve been there watching my players play, for a number of years I was actually part of the selection committee. When I moved out to Arizona, I kind of lost touch with them and though that ship had sailed. To get that call and say that I was selected…it’s going to be a good time.”

Rasmussen presented Keener with a plaque reading “800 High School Wins” as part of the tribute in the gymnasium after the game.

“We’ve had a good program, but the thing is we’ve moved up levels because of him,” said Rasmussen. “We have a very consistent program from the elementary to the high school because of him.”

Successful basketball isn’t the only thing Keener brings to Gilbert Christian. He is also very active in attendance of other sports, teaches history, has been the chapel speaker and mentors other coaches.

“The kids love him, they love Mr. Keener,” said Rasmussen. “He’s very respected, he’s very liked. And with that he can lead.”

Rasmussen also said Keener has “a deep insight into each player’s heart, shows compassion toward them and instills courage in them.”

Keener’s compassion and leadership has produced many relationships over the years. Joe Keener, Keener’s son, said former players still call him today.  

“He’s built a family within a family,” said Joe. “We call it a fraternity of players. No matter what, he was still their dad even when they didn’t have a dad.”

The Knights were 2A state champions in 2017, and after moving up to 3A this season are poised to win another at 13-2. One player offered congratulations to Keener on video, following up with a note about how the state title is still out there.

“These guys are committed to it,” said Keener.