Matt Gaffney Commits to Navy
Matt Gaffney has built a legacy rooted in consistency, perseverance, and consistent dedication to growing his game.
The Malden Catholic and Middlesex Magic point guard recently announced his commitment to the Navy Midshipmen of the Patriot League, marking the next chapter in a story defined by his ability to contribute to winning.
For years, Gaffney has been a standout in Massachusetts high school basketball. He’s already secured three consecutive state championships with Malden Catholic and is poised to chase a rare fourth title in his senior year.
Such a feat would cement his career as one of the most remarkable in New England high school basketball history.
Achieving last year’s championship was no small task. After a rough 7-9 start to the season, Malden Catholic looked anything but destined for postseason glory.
Yet the team rallied, finishing the year on a nine-game win streak that culminated in a decisive title victory.
Reflecting on the turning point, Gaffney credited the team’s belief in its leaders: "We have the best coaching staff in the state. We listened to the coaching. We knew it was going to work," he told the Boston Globe.
Gaffney was instrumental in the championship run, particularly in the final, where he poured in 15 first-half points to help Malden Catholic build a commanding 25-point lead.
By the fourth quarter, with the game well in hand, Gaffney left the court once again undefeated in postseason play—a testament to his ability to perform under pressure and play winning basketball.
Gaffney attributes much of his success to the Malden Catholic program and its influence on his game: "I would say my toughness is one of my best skills because if you’re not tough, you’re not going to win. I have to thank my coaches at Malden Catholic for bringing that toughness out of me," he explained.
Beyond toughness, Gaffney’s ability to stay poised under pressure, make smart decisions, and excel as a ball-handler and shooter has been crucial to his success.
Gaffney carried his championship mentality into the summer, leading his Middlesex Magic HGSL team under the guidance of Coach Lambros Papalambros.
Despite facing some powerhouse teams with Division I talent, Gaffney’s leadership and skill as the team’s floor general stood out. His team captured the Hoop Group Showcase League championship, and Gaffney earned HGSL MVP honors.
One highlight of their HGSL championship was a victory in the final over George Hill All Indy, led by top-100 guard Azavier Robinson, a Butler commit. It was a reminder that Gaffney could compete with the best and win.
When it came time to choose his college destination, Gaffney felt a pull toward Annapolis: "What led me to choosing Navy is that I felt like it was a calling. I wanted to play basketball at the highest level possible, attend a strong academic school with opportunities beyond the game, and play at a place I could always come back to," he shared.
His visit to the Naval Academy sealed the deal: "The coaching staff and players made me feel more and more comfortable with the environment. I truly felt it was a calling from God to play basketball at the Naval Academy," he said.
While Gaffney considered other schools, including Chicago State and high-academic Division III programs like Johns Hopkins and the University of Chicago, Navy checked every box for him.
In an era where top New England prospects often choose NEPSAC prep schools to boost their recruiting profiles, Gaffney’s commitment as an MIAA product stands out: "I think my recruitment has been huge for the MIAA because it shows kids that you can go Division I even if you aren’t at a prep school," he said.
Gaffney’s success is a testament to his hard work and the supportive environments of both Malden Catholic and Middlesex Magic. He expressed deep gratitude to those who have guided him: "I’d like to thank God first and foremost. My family—especially my mom, dad, and siblings—for always pushing me to be the best player and person I can be. To Coach Walsh, Coach Clark, Coach Lee, Coach Garrity, Coach Dunn, Coach Rome, Uncle Richie, the Malden Catholic basketball program, and the entire Malden Catholic community. To Coach Lambros, Coach Crotty, Coach G, and the Middlesex Magic family. And to Coach DeChellis and the entire Naval Academy coaching staff for this amazing opportunity."
As Gaffney prepares for his final high school season, the goal remains the same: to win. Achieving a fourth consecutive state championship would cap off an already legendary career, but he’s proven time and time again that he’s up for the challenge.
Before heading to Navy, Gaffney has one more chapter to write at Malden Catholic. If his track record is any indication, it will be nothing short of remarkable.