Connor Moroney, who was a varsity assistant the last two seasons at Franklin, is the new boys’ basketball coach at Millis High.

Moroney’s background has several links to the Hockomock League, which is considered one of the top-notch conferences in the state. The 27-year-old native of Easton played basketball and football at Oliver Ames, he later was an assistant jayvee coach at Oliver Ames before spending three years on the staff at Franklin. He lives in North Attleboro.

Last season, Coach C.J. Neely led Franklin High to the Division 1 state basketball championship by defeating Newton North. Neely’s Panthers, who previously had advanced to the finals three times and lost, became the first boys’ state hoop champs in Franklin’s history.

Moroney was Neely’s freshman coach during the 2022-23 season, then served as a varsity aide the last two years. 

“I scouted upcoming opponents and helped coach the blue team (Franklin’s varsity reserves),’’ said Moroney. “To be on the staff for the title run was an incredible experience. I’m grateful to have coached with C.J. His teams are unselfish and disciplined, he cares about his players and coaches, and he wants his players to be the best version of themselves. He does everything in a positive way.’’

There’s little doubt that Moroney will incorporate some of Neely’s successful methods. 

Millis Athletic Director Derek Phinney is upbeat about Moroney joining the Mohawks’ program.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Connor as our new varsity boys’ coach at Millis High,’’ Phinney said. “This is a crucial time in the program, and Coach Moroney brings a tremendous amount of youthful energy and a clear vision to point us in the right direction. We’re excited for what the future holds for Millis basketball under his leadership.’’

Last year, the Mohawks finished 9-13, then split a pair of games in the playoffs. After the season, Coach Paul Adams decided to step down.

Moroney inherits a team that has a mix of youth and experience, and his goals will focus on building team chemistry and realizing potential.

“I want to build positive relationships,’’ said Moroney. “I also want to cultivate a competitive environment and maximize our athletic potential.’’ Moroney’s on-court style will emphasize pressure defense, rebounding and playing fast.’

Moroney, who was hired in May, met his players later that month and expressed joy and excitement to be their coach. “I let them know that I was thrilled about the opportunity and excited to watch everyone compete,’’ he offered.

Moroney advised his players to focus on improving their skills by competing in summer leagues and working diligently on strength and conditioning. “By Thanksgiving, it’s important that they’re faster and stronger and confident about their improvement,’’ he noted.

Moroney is acutely aware that competing in the Tri Valley League will be challenging. “It’s a strong league and the teams are well-coached,’’ he said. “Every game will bring its own challenge and we’ll look forward to competing at a high level.’’

When pre-season practice gets underway late in November, and concludes early in December, Moroney expects his roster to include “unselfish players who are willing to sacrifice for the good of the team.’’ He also added that he’ll strive “to develop players who have high basketball IQs and who are quality student-athletes.’’

Moroney’s coaching philosophy focuses on reaching potential and building strong relationships. “If our players can be the best version of themselves, then winning will be the by-product,’’ he said. “And it’s important that they learn valuable life lessons from athletics. Lessons like overcoming adversity, being resilient, being good teammates and leaders, and willing to accept responsibility and be accountable.’’

At Oliver Ames, Moroney was a league all-star in football, playing linebacker and running back. He also played point guard in basketball and was a captain in both sports his senior year. As a sophomore in football, he competed on a team that finished 10-1 and won the division title. As a junior in basketball, Oliver Ames won the Davenport Division crown.

After graduation, Moroney enrolled at the University of New Hampshire where he majored in health and physical education. After he graduated in 2020, he was hired to teach physical education in the Norwood school system.

Calling his parents (Bill and Eileen) and his older brothers (John and Brian) role models for their support and encouragement, Moroney also is pleased with the support his new athletic director has displayed. “Derek is not only very supportive, but it’s clear that he cares about the growth of Millis High and its student-athletes,’’ he emphasized. 

Two coaches that Moroney admires and credits for his development as a player are Jim Artz in football and the late Don Byron in basketball. He also lists Neely as a terrific mentor and thanks Franklin High Athletic Director Karrah Ellis for her support.

Franklin High’s state title last winter is still fresh in Moroney’s thoughts. But, as amazing as it was for him, he’s most happy for the players and the other coaches he worked with. “I’m glad for them because they’re the ones who battled hard and courageously during the previous seasons,’’ he said.

Moroney also shows appreciation for Millis where he now will work diligently to make the community’s basketball program a success.

“I’m very honored to be part of a town that has such pride and tradition in athletics,’’ he said.