Don’t call it a comeback.

Former Bainbridge High School basketball coach Scott Orness is returning to lead the Spartans program next season, athletic director Luke Ande confirmed May 1. He replaces Will Ferris, who recently resigned following two seasons as the Spartans’ coach. Last year, Bainbridge had a successful 18-6 record and qualified for the opening round of the state tournament.

“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Orness back to Bainbridge,” Ande said in a news release. “Scott is not only an outstanding coach but also a person of great character who leads with integrity and passion. His commitment to building strong teams and empowering young athletes aligns perfectly with the values of our program and community.”

Orness, who will be inducted into the Washington Interscholastic Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame later this summer, previously coached Bainbridge for 11 seasons before stepping down in 2015. His best season with the Spartans came in 2007 when the team finished second in state as a 3A team.

Following his coaching tenure at Bainbridge, Orness coached the North Kitsap Vikings for nine seasons until resigning in 2024, most notably capturing the 2A state title in 2020, along with many other top finishes at state. The Vikings won the Olympic League every year under his helm. He coached his son, Cade, while at NK, who was a freshman walk-on last season at Gonzaga.

Orness is also a teacher at Woodward Middle School on Bainbridge.

“I’m honored and excited to return to Bainbridge High School,” said Orness. “As a teacher of 23 years in the Bainbridge Island School District, this community holds a special place in my heart. I look forward to working with our student-athletes to build something meaningful together.”