Ogallala, Ne - There will be new leadership in the Ogallala Public Schools boys basketball program in 2025. Andy Gillen steps down after seven remarkable years, handing the reins to Ogallala graduate and former player Carter Brown—his oldest son.
Coach Andy Gillen has been the architect of an extraordinary era for Ogallala boys basketball since taking over seven years ago. Under his leadership, the team compiled an impressive 116-24 record, cementing its status as a juggernaut in Nebraska high school sports. Gillen’s tenure included six Southwest Conference (SWC) Coach of the Year awards, six state tournament qualifications, seven regular-season SWC championships, and six SWC tournament titles. His teams also achieved notable postseason success, securing third place in Class C1 in 2019 and 2023, and finishing as state runner-up in 2020. Gillen’s strategic brilliance and relentless drive turned Ogallala into a perennial contender, leaving a legacy of excellence.
Reflecting on his time as coach, Gillen shared a heartfelt message:
"Basketball has always been more than just a game to me. It’s been a passion—one that I’ve loved teaching, watching, and playing. But beyond the X’s and O’s, it’s the relationships, the camaraderie, and the moments with the guys that I will miss the most. Together, we built something special. The 'Truth' brand has become synonymous with winning the right way—playing hard, playing together, and embracing the mindset that 'stats are for losers; the final score is for winners.' That identity will always be a source of pride for me. As I step away, I do so with immense pride, knowing that I am passing the torch to my oldest son, Carter. Watching him continue the legacy we’ve built fills me with excitement and gratitude. No matter where the journey takes me, I will always be a part of the 'Truth' family."
Gillen’s decision to step down stems not from exhaustion, but from a desire to offer someone else the same opportunity he received—a chance to lead a thriving program poised for continued success. That someone is Carter Brown, an Ogallala High School alumnus who played under Gillen and now returns to his roots. A recent graduate of Graceland University, Brown started for the Graceland men’s basketball team over the past two seasons, helping lead the squad to the NAIA national tournament—an achievement that marked only the second such appearance in the school’s history. His deep connection to Ogallala’s winning culture and his proven leadership make him a natural fit to carry forward the “Truth” legacy.
The Ogallala Public Schools community extends its deepest gratitude to Coach Andy Gillen for his unparalleled success, dedication, and the indelible mark he’s left on the program. At the same time, the district welcomes Carter Brown with enthusiasm and high expectations as he takes the helm of a team in its prime.
This transition marks the end of an iconic chapter and the dawn of an exciting new era for Ogallala boys basketball—one rooted in family, tradition, and the enduring spirit of the “Truth.”
Gillen ends his head coaching carreer after 17 years at 357-69, Gillen previously coached girls basketball in Kansas for 10 years, and won three state championships before his family moved back to Nebraska. He was a Cozad High Graduate.