Sierra High School’s Legendary Basketball Coach, Terry Dunn, Hangs Up His Whistle

Coach Terry Dunn may have hung up his whistle for the last time, but he will continue to serve D2 students as the principal of D2’s Career Readiness Academy and assist the district in opening an alternative middle school during the 2024-2025 school year.

“It has been an honor to witness Coach Dunn’s work. His commitment to excellence and unwavering support for his players are the gold standard in coaching. While Coach Dunn has many victories and impressive titles, the real wins are the lives he’s impacted. His former players continue to seek him out to show their appreciation for the way he changed their trajectory,” says Dr. Wendy Birhanzel

Dr. Wendy Birhanzel shares, “Coach Dunn is a legend in the game, and his integrity and dedication speak to his character. While his coaching on the court has ended, D2 continues to benefit from his coaching in the classroom.”

Coach Dunn has had an impressive career in athletics but is often slow to speak about his own accomplishments. He’s made it his mission to prioritize and highlight the hard work and accomplishments of his players and students, whom he continues to work with.

“It was tough stepping away from something that has been a huge part of my life. D-2 is a huge part of my professional and personal life as well. When you have a passion for what you do, it is never a job,” said Coach Terry Dunn.

Some of Coach Dunn’s accomplishments include being recognized by the Colorado High School Coaches Association for having over 400 wins during his time at Harrison and Sierra High Schools, being named coach of the year, and being named the head coach of area all-star teams. Coach Dunn has also helped to develop players who played both at the professional and college levels.  

Beyond his local impact, Coach Dunn helped lead the Dartmouth basketball team to the biggest wins turnaround in Ivy League History during his coaching career. He also developed strong ties to USA Basketball and helped to coach within that program. During his career on the court, Coach Dunn also coached two players who are now NBA coaches (Jamahl Mosley of the Orlando Magic and Chauncey Billups of the Portland Trailblazers).

Harrison School District 2 leaders thank Coach Dunn for impacting our athletes and community during his years on the court. D2 will work with D2 Athletics' leaders to hire the next generation of coaches to help lead our student-athletes into the future.

Coach Dunn is available next week for media interviews upon request.