Ian Progin New Jersey Death and Obituary – Ian Progin, the beloved head coach of the Hillsborough High School boys’ basketball team, passed away on May 2, 2024, at the age of 47 after a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer. His death marks the end of a remarkable journey that inspired countless individuals, particularly those who were lucky enough to witness his incredible legacy as a coach, mentor, and human being.
Progin’s story was one of resilience and determination. Diagnosed in 2011 with glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer, Ian was given a grim prognosis—less than 5% of patients with glioblastoma survive beyond five years. Despite the devastating diagnosis, Ian chose not to step away from his passion for basketball. Instead, he continued to serve as a guiding force for the Hillsborough basketball team, even as he underwent surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy. His perseverance was evident in his continued leadership on the court, inspiring not just his players, but also the entire community.
One of the most memorable moments in Ian Progin’s career came in 2014, when he led the Hillsborough Raiders to a stunning victory in the Somerset County Tournament final. His team, underdogs against a heavily favored Gill St. Bernard’s squad, triumphed in an emotional overtime victory. What made this victory even more powerful was that it came during Ian’s toughest personal battle with cancer. He had been fighting the disease for years, yet his unwavering commitment to his team remained steadfast.
The victory was a symbol of Ian’s indomitable spirit, as recalled by Matt Hornich, a senior on the team that year. “If coach can fight through what he’s been through, there’s no reason we can’t go out and win this for him,” Hornich said. The victory was not only about the championship but also a testament to Ian’s philosophy that determination, no matter the odds, can lead to greatness.
Ian’s journey through coaching began in 2004, when he took over the Hillsborough boys’ basketball program. A 1996 graduate of Hillsborough High, Ian had played basketball for Rutgers University before returning to his hometown to make a lasting impact on the school’s athletic programs. Under his leadership, the Hillsborough Raiders transformed from a modest team to a competitive force in New Jersey basketball. His dedication to his athletes extended beyond basketball; he worked as a guidance counselor, serving as a mentor and role model to many young people in the community.
In 2015, Ian guided the Raiders to another stunning achievement, capturing the Central Group 4 title as a 13th seed—a feat that included four consecutive road victories. This victory was another testament to Ian’s unique ability to inspire his players, even in the face of overwhelming odds. His coaching career, however, didn’t end with the boys’ program. Ian returned to coaching the Hillsborough girls’ varsity team in 2016, leading them to a Central Group 4 final appearance in 2020, before stepping down from coaching for good.
Beyond his victories, Ian’s battle with cancer sparked a movement within his community. In 2011, local coaches created the Coaches vs. Cancer showcase in his honor, an annual fundraiser that has since raised significant funds for cancer research. Ian’s fight against cancer became a source of inspiration not only for his athletes but for everyone who witnessed his unyielding willpower.
Ian’s passing leaves a profound void in the Hillsborough community. He is survived by his wife, Courtney, and their two children, Payton and Jeff. His family, particularly his wife, was a constant source of support during his battle with cancer.
Ian Progin’s life and legacy will forever be defined by his courage, love for basketball, and dedication to his family and community. He was not only a coach but also a mentor whose greatest victories were not found on the scoreboard, but in the hearts and lives he touched. His story is one of enduring hope, a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can achieve the impossible.