Gene Durden | Head Girls Basketball Coach

Bio

Gene Durden has built a legendary career in Georgia high school basketball, combining championship success, player development, and a commitment to preparing student-athletes for success both on and off the court.

Basketball has been a lifelong passion for Durden, and throughout his career, the game has provided opportunities to teach valuable lessons about discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. His coaching philosophy centers around building relationships, creating lasting memories, and helping young athletes develop the skills needed to succeed beyond basketball.

Durden began his coaching career at Brookwood School in Thomasville, Georgia, where he coached both the boys’ and girls’ basketball programs from 1988-1991. During his three seasons at Brookwood, Durden established a foundation of success, compiling a 100-56 record.

Following his time at Brookwood, Durden spent 14 seasons at Dade County High School (1991-2005), continuing to build a successful program and developing student-athletes through a culture of commitment and excellence. During his tenure, he recorded a 333-88 record.

Durden joined Buford High School in 2005 and has since built the Lady Wolves basketball program into one of the premier programs in the state of Georgia. Entering his 21st season leading Buford Girls Basketball, Durden has compiled a 560-90 record at Buford, establishing a tradition of championship success and sustained excellence.

Under Durden’s leadership, Buford has captured eight GHSA State Championships, earned numerous region championships, and consistently competed at the highest level of high school basketball. The Lady Wolves have become known for their toughness, preparation, and commitment to excellence on and off the court.

The 2025-26 season continued Buford’s tradition of success, as the Lady Wolves finished 25-2, captured a Region Championship, and advanced to the State Sweet 16.

Across his career as a head coach, Durden has accumulated a 993-234 record, cementing his place among the most successful high school basketball coaches in Georgia history.

Durden chose Buford because of the school’s unique combination of academics, athletics, and community. The commitment to excellence throughout Buford continues to provide an environment where student-athletes can grow, compete, and achieve at the highest level.

Quick Facts

Position: Head Girls Basketball Coach
Years at Buford: 2005-Present
Coaching Experience: 37 seasons as a head coach

Career Record: 993-234
Brookwood School Record: 100-56 (1988-1991)
Dade County High School Record: 333-88 (1991-2005)
Buford High School Record: 560-90 (2005-Present)

Buford Accomplishments:

• 8 GHSA State Championships
• Multiple Region Championships
• Consistent state playoff appearances
• 2025-26 Region Champions
• 2025-26 State Sweet 16 Appearance

Education:
Associate Degree in Business — Brunswick Junior College
Bachelor of Science in Business Education — Georgia Southern University

Family:
Married to Cherie Durden
Children: Devin (deceased), Christian, Coby, and Danielle
Grandchildren: Josie, Beau, Jack, GiGi, Billy, and Jamie