It’s the most recent accomplishment for the coach who led the Red Elephants to two state titles (1983 and 1984), eight state semifinal appearances and an astounding 14 Region championships over his career. And a testament to his longevity is the duration of his 28-year career at Gainesville where he’s won more than 600 games.

"It’s an unbelievable record," Gainesville athletics director Wayne Vickery said. "That’s a lot of years to be a head coach.

"He’s going to be very hard to replace for our school."

Davis sits second in the state in career wins among active boys coaches behind Randolph-Clay’s Joe Williams. "The Lord has blessed Gainesville High to have Jerry Davis," legendary voice of the Red Elephants Walt Snelling said. "Jerry Davis is a winner and just a great influence on young men."

Davis, who began his coaching career in Hall County at North Hall in 1970, and won his first game against White County on Dec. 2, 1970. He moved to Gainesville in 1976 and coached 24 seasons before retiring in 1999. He returned to coach in 2003 and is coaching his fifth and final season back at the school. Over his career he’s averaged 20 wins per season.

"He’s got an incredible record," 1983 Gainesville High graduate Mark DeFoor said. "It just shows what a good coach he is to be able to mold his style for a new generation of players."

Gainesville honored Davis with a ceremony on Friday night with around 75 former players in attendance to give thanks to their former coach.

Even the players on this year’s team got to enjoy the atmosphere during Davis’ final season on the court.

"Coach Davis is a legend," Red Elephant sophomore Ty Redmon said.