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ENROLLED ORIGINAL
1
A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
26-152
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
May 5, 2026
To honor and recognize the Theodore Roosevelt High School boys basketball team and Head
Coach Robert Nickens for their outstanding achievements, sustained excellence, and
contributions to youth development in the District of Columbia.
WHEREAS, Theodore Roosevelt High School’s boys basketball team recently won the
2026 DCIAA Championship, defeating Jackson-Reed High School by a score of 72–65,
demonstrating exceptional skill, discipline, and teamwork;
WHEREAS, Head Coach Robert Nickens has served the Roosevelt community for 21 years,
during which time the program has become one of the most successful and respected in the District
and the broader DMV region;
WHEREAS, during Coach Nickens’ tenure, the Roosevelt Rough Riders have won 5
DCIAA Championships (2008, 2011, 2014, 2020, and 2026);
WHEREAS, the team has also finished as DCIAA runner-up 6 times (2012, 2013, 2016,
2017, 2018, and 2019), appeared in 11 championship games, and reached 16 Final Fours;
WHEREAS, for 14 of the last 20 years, the Roosevelt boys basketball team has won 20 or
more games in a season, demonstrating sustained competitive excellence;
WHEREAS, the team achieved a historic milestone by winning the 2014 DCSAA State
Championship, becoming the first public school to win the title against private school competition;
WHEREAS, Coach Nickens has been recognized for his leadership, including being named
Washington Post All-Met Coach of the Year in 2020 and DCIAA Coach of the Year in 2026; and
WHEREAS, Coach Nickens has compiled an extraordinary record of 489–148, making him
the winningest coach in DCIAA boys basketball history and placing him within reach of 500 career
wins;
ENROLLED ORIGINAL
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WHEREAS, the Roosevelt basketball program has provided opportunities for student-
athletes to continue their education and athletic careers at all collegiate levels, including NAIA,
JUCO, Division I, Division II, Division III, and preparatory programs;
WHEREAS, the Roosevelt basketball program has produced at least 12 players who have
gone on to play professionally;
WHEREAS, beyond athletic success, the program has served as a critical source of
mentorship, structure, and opportunity for young men navigating challenges in their communities;
and
WHEREAS, Coach Nickens has remained committed to Theodore Roosevelt High School
despite opportunities elsewhere, demonstrating a deep dedication to the students and families of the
District.
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the “Theodore Roosevelt High School Boys Basketball Team
Recognition Resolution of 2026”.
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia honors and recognizes the Theodore
Roosevelt High School boys basketball team and Head Coach Robert Nickens for their
achievements and contributions to the District.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.