Timothy Lopez was introduced as Atlantic Collegiate Academy's new Head Girls' Basketball Coach in June of 2026.
Coach Lopez brings a lifelong passion for basketball, extensive coaching experience, and a commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the court.
"I am excited for the opportunity to join the ACA community," Lopez said. "I bring more than 20 years of basketball coaching experience at the college, high school, AAU and youth levels. Throughout my coaching career, I have focused on building successful programs, developing talent, and helping student-athletes prepare for the next step in their academic and athletic journeys.
"I was drawn to Atlantic Collegiate Academy because it offered the chance to develop athletes, build a winning culture, and positively impact young people through sports. I am excited to become part of the ACA family and look forward to helping our student-athletes reach their full potential both on the court and in the classroom."
Born in Elizabeth, NJ, and raised in a close-knit family as one of five brothers, Lopez credits his parents, Hector and Esther Lopez, as the most influential people in his life. Their unwavering support and guidance helped shape the values that have defined his coaching philosophy and leadership style.
A graduate of Montrose Area High School in Montrose, Pa., Lopez was a three-sport athlete, participating in football, basketball, and baseball. His love for athletics began at an early age, and he knew as a child that he wanted to become a basketball coach. Among his favorite memories growing up were spending countless hours playing sports and competing with teammates and friends.
Following high school, Lopez attended SUNY Broome, where he studied Business. While in college, he developed a strong appreciation for accounting and continued to nurture his passion for athletics and coaching. One of his proudest accomplishments was returning to coach at his alma mater and helping lead the program to an MSAC Championship.
Throughout his coaching career, Lopez has served in a variety of leadership roles, including Associate Head Coach for both men's and women's basketball programs. He has also coached at Montrose Area High School and Chenango Forks, building a reputation for player development, discipline, and creating competitive team cultures.
His coaching stops include Chenango Heat - AAU (2005-19), which he co-founded, SUNY Broome Men's Associate (2009-12), SUNY Broome Women's Associate (2013-14), Montrose Boys' Head Coach (2014-16) and Chenango Forks Boys' Head Coach (2016-17).
"My passion for coaching extends beyond wins and losses," Lopez said. "I believe in teaching the values of hard work, accountability, discipline, and teamwork while helping players grow both on and off the court. I look forward to building meaningful relationships with our student-athletes and contributing to a positive and competitive culture within the program.
Away from the court, Lopez, who currently resides in Little River, is a devoted father to his three children, Kayla, Michael (a recent ACA graduate) and Ava (a current ACA student). He believes athletics provide valuable opportunities to teach leadership, accountability, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that extend far beyond the game of basketball.
As he begins this new chapter at Atlantic Collegiate Academy, Coach Lopez is eager to establish a culture of hard work, character, and competitive excellence while building a program that the entire ACA community can be proud of.
