Legendary California High School basketball coach Hans de Lannoy passed away after a nearly seven-year battle with cancer at the age of 72.
Known for being a beloved basketball coach and teacher, Hans is survived by his sister, friends, and family.
Highlights
- Hans de Lannoy courageously battled cancer for nearly seven years before eventually passing away in 2025.
- Hans de Lannoy’s journey began with a cancer diagnosis in 2018. He received treatment and experienced a period of recovery.
- His cancer returned in late 2022, and his condition progressively worsened from that point onward.
Hans was a legendary basketball coach and teacher at San Ramon Valley High School in California, where he has worked since 1982.
Over his career, he amassed 512 wins and led the girls’ team to an East Bay Athletic League and North Coast Section Division I title in 2006.
Further, Hans coined the slogan “Home of Champions,” painted inside the SRV gym walls.
His dedication and passion for coaching have left an impressive mark on San Ramon Valley High School’s athletic journey.
Legendary California high school boys basketball coach Hans de Lannoy succumbs to cancer https://t.co/WXyrGePTe9
— California High School On SI (@SBLiveCA) February 6, 2025
With his passing, students and the school family are mourning the tragic loss of Hans de Lannoy.
Hans Was Diagnosed with Kidney Cancer in 2018, Which Later Spread to His Brain in 2022
Hans was first diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2018, which eventually spread to his lungs and brain.
Following his diagnosis, Lannoy received immunotherapy treatment for the next year and successfully entered remission.
Unfortunately, despite undergoing therapy, the cancer returned in late 2022, this time primarily affecting his brain.
During the time, many of his friends, including head coach Botteen and the Wolves, thought they would lose Hans.
Later, in December 2022, he was kept under hospice care at home, and he showed remarkable resilience despite the challenges.
Throughout his battle with cancer, colleagues and students frequently visited his home to offer their support.
After recovering, Lannoy made an incredible comeback, returning to coach and contribute to the sports team.
Even with his condition, Hans de Lannoy was dedicated to attending practices and games as much as possible.
He attended two out of three contests at the Riordan Crusader Classic in early December.
However, his condition worsened on December 15 when he collapsed at home and was hospitalized.
Despite this, he remained actively involved with the team, giving pump-up speeches and supporting the Wolves.
Throughout The Classic at Damien tournament, Lannoy remained in contact with the Wolves and supported them despite his condition.
Hans Was Open About His Cancer Battle, Sharing His Journey Publicly
Hans was open about his cancer battle, and he regularly shared his cancer journey on his social media.
From the start of his journey, he often shared updates and reflections on his Facebook account.
By doing so, he not only kept his friends, family, and the community informed about his condition but also provided a source of inspiration and strength to many.
His posts included pictures of him from the hospital, exercising, or spending quality time with loved ones.
However, Hans always remained focused on the positive aspects of life and continued to express his gratitude for the love and support he received.
His transparency and courage in sharing his journey have been commendable, and his legacy will be cherished for years.
Additional Information
- Hans de Lannoy started his coaching career in the fall of 1972 at Cubberley High School in Palo Alto.
- Later, he moved to various schools, including Gunn High School and California High School, before joining San Ramon Valley High School.
- Hans coached the boys’ team there until 1987 and later returned to coach the girls’ team starting in 2001.
