Rutherford Joins Claremore High School to Build a “New Type of Zebra”
Claremore Public Schools is proud to announce the hiring of Randy Rutherford as the new Boys Basketball Head Coach and Dean of Students at Claremore High School. His appointment was approved during the district’s regular Board of Education meeting in May.
Rutherford brings more than three decades of basketball experience to the Zebra program, highlighted by an iconic collegiate career and a proven record of developing student-athletes. A household name in Oklahoma basketball, Rutherford starred at Oklahoma State University and played a pivotal role in leading the Cowboys to the 1995 NCAA Final Four, averaging 19.6 points per game that season and earning All-American honors.
Following his collegiate success, Rutherford played professionally until 2003 before launching a coaching career rooted in mentorship and competitive excellence. Over the past seven years, he led the McLain High School Titans, guiding the team to two Class 4A state tournament appearances and helping eight student-athletes earn college basketball opportunities.
“Claremore has great facilities, and they’re passionate about winning in basketball. They’re fully committed to making it happen,” said Rutherford. “I’ve enjoyed my time at McLain and loved working with the kids, but this feels like the right move for me. Claremore excels in most sports, and I’m confident that we’ll see success in basketball as well. It’s a strong athletic department with a new training facility, and I’m excited about the direction Claremore is heading.” He talked about his desire to belong to a deep-rooted community that actively participates, supports, and takes pride in its school through both words and actions. “Claremore embodies this spirit, and I am eager to be a part of it.”
Wasting no time, Coach Rutherford met with his players before school dismissed for the summer to introduce himself, share his vision, and set expectations. “I’m not a coach… I’m a teacher! I will teach you the skills and you will learn them. We are building a new type of Zebra,” he told the team. His message was clear: success will come from discipline, development, and a Zebra-first mindset.
Rutherford’s philosophy of mentorship is deeply intertwined with his roles as both a coach and Dean of Students. In addition to coaching, he will support student success through attendance management, discipline, and school culture initiatives. He fosters an environment where students feel valued, promoting both athletic and personal development. His leadership will benefit the athletic department and the school community by encouraging students to reach their potential and build trust-based relationships. Ultimately, Rutherford aims to create a culture of empowerment for all students.
“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Rutherford to Claremore,” said Superintendent Bryan Frazier. “His experience as a player, coach, and mentor speaks for itself. He embodies the grit, leadership, excellence, sense of community, and student-first mindset we value at Claremore Public Schools.”
With deep Oklahoma roots and a championship mindset, Rutherford is ready to elevate Zebra basketball and support student success both on and off the court.