Seton Catholic Preparatory Head Coach Karen Self’s career can be described in one word: legendary.
12 state titles. 30 consecutive region titles. Over 800 wins. Inducted into multiple Halls of Fame.
She now gets to add another title to her legendary status: the winningest coach in Arizona Girls Basketball history.
On January 17th, the Seton Catholic Prep girls basketball team defeated Globe, 78-8, earning Coach Self her 833rd career win, sitting her at the pinnacle of Arizona High School basketball.
“It is incredibly hard to describe what passing a milestone like this means to me,” Self said. “I'm incredibly grateful to the amazing players and families who gave their all for the program.
“The support of the Seton Catholic community has been overwhelming and I am so thankful to have coached my entire career with my Seton family. Obviously, this could never have happened without my assistant coaches contributing immeasurably to our success. Most importantly, I want to thank my husband, kids, and extended family for all of their support. None of this is possible without their sacrifice.”
The Sentinels took control in their game vs. Globe from the tip, securing the outcome early. As the final buzzer sounded, the team and fans in attendance celebrated as their coach moved past Minor Webster with win No. 833.
Over her 33 years as a head coach – all at Seton Catholic Prep – Self’s teams have epitomized consistency and success, becoming one of the top programs in Arizona and recognized nationally for their greatness.
Not only have her programs had success on the court, through her positive guidance and character building, her teams have garnered respect and praise in the community for their sportsmanship and how they handle themselves as representatives of Seton Catholic, as evidenced by earning the AIA Sportsmanship award multiple times.
"Coach Self's extraordinary achievement is a testament not only to her remarkable talent and dedication but also to the values she instills in her players,” Seton Catholic Principal Victor Serna said. “Her record-breaking milestone is a reflection of her tireless commitment to excellence, both on and off the court. I am proud to celebrate her success, which exemplifies the spirit of our mission excellence, leadership, and service to others. Congratulations, Coach Self, on this incredible accomplishment!"
Coach Self’s hard work and dedication have been recognized, having earned Coach of the Year awards at the state level multiple times. She was also named NFHS Coach of the Year during the 2016-17 season and was chosen as a McDonald’s All-American Game coach in 2020. She has been inducted into the Arizona HS Coaches Hall of Fame, Arizona Sports Hall of Fame and Chandler Sports Hall of Fame.
She has also parlayed that success into recognition at the higher levels, having been associated with USA Basketball, the Phoenix Mercury and Nike Basketball, including just being named as an assistant coach for 2025 USA Women’s Nike Hoop Summit, all while using her position to champion women’s sports, especially basketball. For her efforts, she was awarded the 2019 AIA Leadership in Girl’s/Women’s Sports Award.
“Having worked alongside Karen Self for the past decade, I've witnessed firsthand the remarkable impact she has on every student-athlete who walks through our gym doors,” Seton Catholic Athletic Director Jim Shewbridge said. “Tonight's historic 833rd win, making her Arizona's all-time winningest girls basketball coach, is the culmination of over 30 years of tireless dedication to Seton Catholic Prep.
“Coach Self's success extends far beyond the scoreboard – she has built a program founded on integrity, academic excellence, and character development. Her legacy at Seton Catholic isn't just measured in victories, but in the countless lives she's shaped through her extraordinary leadership and unwavering commitment to developing strong, confident young women.”
Seton Catholic will be celebrating Coach Self’s record-breaking achievement at their next home game against Highland Prep on January 21st. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. and there will be a reception after the game.