In a significant move for Arizona high school basketball, Millennium High School has officially announced Rich Thornton as their new head coach. This is a big-time hire for Millennium, as the community has been eagerly awaiting the announcement of who would replace former head coach Ty Amundsen, who left to join the coaching staff at Arizona State University. Thornton brings a wealth of experience and a championship pedigree to the program - stepping in to lead a team already loaded with talent and primed for Open Division State Championship contention.
Before taking the reins at Millennium, Thornton spent (13) seasons as the varsity assistant coach at Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, where he helped lead the program to an astonishing 11 State Championships in 13 seasons. He also served as the Assistant Director of the heavily Nike-sponsored Vegas Elite club program, and played a key role in helping them reach the Peach Jam National Championship game just last summer. Thornton has a reputation for developing top-tier talent and coaching teams capable of competing on the biggest stages.
Thornton inherits a Millennium program that has been one of Arizona’s elite basketball teams for the past decade, built on the strong foundation established by Amundson. With state-of-the-art facilities, a deep roster, and strong community support, Millennium stands out among high school programs in the country. The current roster includes standout players such as Cameron Holmes, one of the nation’s premier 2026 prospects, and rising 2028 phenom Adan Diggs, who recently transferred to Millennium and is regarded as one of the best young prospects in the country.
Thornton’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment for Millennium, as Arizona’s high school basketball landscape is wide open following the graduation of Perry High School superstar Koa Peat. The Tigers are well-positioned to make a run at another Open Division title, and Thornton’s proven leadership, combined with Millennium’s talent and resources, make them an immediate favorite.
This hire not only reinforces Millennium’s status as a premier destination for elite basketball players, but also signals that the program’s championship aspirations remain as strong as ever. With Thornton at the helm, the Tigers are poised to write the next chapter in their rich basketball history.
