Pablo Gabaldon
New head basketball coach
LOS LUNAS — Pablo Gabaldon said in a News-Bulletin story more than a year ago his dream was to be a head basketball coach.
That dream came true Tuesday when Gabaldon was promoted to the head boys’ basketball coach at Los Lunas High School.
Gabaldon was an assistant under Travis Julian since 2017, and when Julian resigned in March after 12 years, Julian recommended Gabaldon as his replacement.
“I’m really excited to get this job,” Gabaldon said shortly after the announcement. “I’m excited to be a part of this program, to continue that success that coach Julian had, but also try to create our own success for the kids.”
As an assistant, Gabaldon’s responsibilities grew to include such things as being in charge of substitutions.
“There will be similar and different things in a sense,” Gabaldon said. “I’m my own coach. I have my own personality, so some things will be different,” while adding, “don’t mess with success.”
The Tigers have won 10 district titles in 12 years.
A graduate of Belen High School, Gabaldon started his coaching career with the Eagles, including a stint as interim boys head coach.
“I’m very excited to be here, happy to be here and continue to be a part of the Los Lunas basketball program,” the new head coach said.
Gabaldon is a science teacher at Los Lunas High School.
Mike Powers spent more than 40 years as a television news and sports anchor, mostly in the Albuquerque market. He has won numerous awards including New Mexico Sportscaster of the Year. He covers a wide range of sports, including the Valencia County prep scene.
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April 25, 2024
