DANVERS — St. John’s Prep Athletic Director Jameson Pelkey has announced that Newton native and former Newton South boys basketball coach Corey Lowe will be the new head coach of the Eagles’ program, effective immediately. Lowe replaces David Clay, who stepped down earlier this year after three seasons of dedicated leadership, citing personal reasons.
Lowe spent the past two seasons leading Newton South High School, transforming a 7–13 program into a 16–4 contender by his second year. A 2025 Dual County League Coach of the Year, Lowe has mentored numerous all–league and all–star players across his coaching stops and has held key leadership roles with prominent programs including Mass Rivals as well as ASA and Nike basketball camps. He also brings experience from Bradford Christian Academy, where he led the girls team to a 20–3 record and an undefeated league season. Lowe graduated from Newton North in 2006 and went on to play collegiately at Boston University, earning a degree in Hospitality Administration in 2010.
“I’m excited to get working with Corey. He has an outstanding background as a player achieving success at the highest levels in high school, college, and professionally.” said Pelkey, now in his sixth year as Eagles AD. “He has done tremendous work coaching the last ten years. Coach Lowe is a huge addition for our basketball program, and I can’t wait to see what he brings not only to our team, but to the entire St. John’s community.”
Lowe will work the sidelines as the Prep’s fifth basketball head coach of the 21st century. Clay led the team to a record of 15–48 during his time at the helm. Dullea compiled a 117–68 record and reached the postseason seven times, including six straight appearances from 2014–19. Previously an Eagles assistant coach, he succeeded Sean Connolly, who posted an 89–25 record, including a 10–4 postseason mark in five seasons from 2008–2013. Connolly led the school to the program’s only state title in 2011 with current Milwaukee Bucks guard Pat Connaughton serving as the star. Prior to that, current Prep baseball coach Danny Letarte ’86 was head coach for 12 seasons.
“I am blessed to be able to be the next leader of the Eagles program,” said Lowe. “I will put a lot of focus into the development of all players from our middle school up to the varsity team. Sharpening skills that will allow us to play fast, spaced, and aggressive. Looking forward to getting started!”
A 2010 graduate of Boston University, Lowe was a four–year starter and three–year captain for the Terriers. He remains the program’s all–time leader in three–pointers and minutes played, and ranks among the top five in both career points and assists. After graduation, he played professionally in Latvia, Israel, and Brazil before retiring due to injury.
Lowe takes over an Eagles’ program that went 2–18 in the 2024–25 season and last reached the postseason Division 1 North Sectional quarterfinals in 2018.
