A new era dawns for Loyola High School's boys basketball team as Cameron Joyce assumes the role of head coach. With a legacy deeply rooted in basketball excellence, Joyce brings an impressive coaching background and a commitment to fostering both athletic and personal growth among his players. His journey from St. Ignatius High in Cleveland to Loyola exemplifies not only his dedication to the sport but also his alignment with the values of Jesuit education.

Harnessing Legacy and Excellence: The Future of Loyola Basketball

The appointment of Cameron Joyce signifies a pivotal moment for Loyola High, promising a fusion of tradition and innovation on the court.

Journey to Leadership: A Coach Shaped by Experience

Cameron Joyce’s path to becoming Loyola High's new boys basketball coach is marked by significant milestones and a diverse range of experiences. Before joining Loyola, he served as the head coach at St. Ignatius High in Cleveland since 2019, where he made history as the school's first African-American head coach. Under his guidance, St. Ignatius achieved remarkable success, amassing a record of 118-44 and securing a state championship in 2024. This achievement underscores Joyce’s ability to lead teams to peak performance while instilling discipline and teamwork.Prior to his tenure at St. Ignatius, Joyce honed his skills in various prestigious roles. He worked as the Director of Operations for Ohio State University's men’s basketball program, gaining invaluable insights into collegiate-level operations. Additionally, he spent two seasons at the University of Florida and contributed to the development of young athletes at Northwood University as an assistant coach. Each position enriched his understanding of basketball strategies and player development, preparing him for the challenges and opportunities ahead at Loyola.

Inspired by Family Roots: Building a Foundation of Success

Cameron Joyce’s passion for basketball is undeniably influenced by his family’s storied involvement in the sport. As the son of Dru Joyce II, who famously coached LeBron James at St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio, Joyce grew up immersed in the intricacies of the game. His father continues to lead the Fighting Irish, maintaining a legacy of excellence that Cameron aims to emulate. Furthermore, his older brother, Dru Joyce III, currently serves as the head men’s basketball coach at Duquesne University, adding another layer of familial influence to Cameron’s career trajectory.Playing under his father at St. Vincent-St. Mary further solidified Joyce’s foundational knowledge of basketball. During his time there, the Fighting Irish clinched three district championships, one regional title, and reached the state tournament semifinals. These accomplishments not only shaped Joyce’s approach to coaching but also instilled in him a relentless drive for success and a deep appreciation for teamwork and perseverance.

Vision for Loyola: Elevating Mission League Standards

Joyce’s decision to join Loyola High represents more than just a career move; it embodies a vision to elevate the standards of Mission League basketball. Known as one of the premier high school basketball leagues in the nation, the Mission League includes powerhouse schools such as Harvard-Westlake, Notre Dame Sherman Oaks, Sierra Canyon, St. Francis, Chaminade, Crespi, and Alemany. Competing against these elite programs aligns perfectly with Joyce’s ambition to challenge his players and foster their growth both personally and athletically.In expressing his excitement about the opportunity, Joyce emphasized the allure of coaching in such a competitive league. “It’s a unique opportunity for me to coach at another Jesuit school,” he stated. “The Mission League is one of the best leagues in the country. To have that opportunity to coach in one of the best leagues (and) in one of the biggest markets in the country is something I look forward to.” His enthusiasm reflects a commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving greatness within the framework of Jesuit principles.

Succession and Transition: Loyola’s Evolving Leadership

The transition at Loyola High extends beyond the basketball court, encompassing changes in school administration that promise stability and continuity. Former coach Damaine Powell stepped down from his position in March 2021 after four successful seasons, leaving behind a legacy of 72-46 wins. Meanwhile, Jamal Adams, Loyola’s new president, brings extensive experience as the former boys basketball coach for 16 years. His return to Loyola after serving as principal at La Salle High in Pasadena ensures a seamless integration of administrative and athletic priorities.As speculation swirled around potential replacements for the Loyola coaching position, names like Brentwood’s Ryan ‘Moose’ Bailey, Redondo Union’s Reggie Morris, La Mirada’s Randy Oronoz, and Cal Lutheran University’s Russell White emerged as contenders. However, Cameron Joyce stood out due to his comprehensive qualifications and alignment with Loyola’s mission. His appointment underscores the school’s dedication to maintaining its reputation as a leader in high school athletics while nurturing the holistic development of its students.