Midway High School Names Ben Basden Head Baseball Coach

Midway ISD is proud to announce the appointment of Ben Basden as the next Head Baseball Coach of Midway High School.

Coach Basden has served as Midway's pitching coach and varsity assistant baseball coach for the past 11 seasons, contributing to the program's 255 wins over that span, playing an instrumental role in one of the most successful eras in program history. During his tenure, the Panthers have captured district championships in eight of the last nine seasons, including five consecutive district titles, and culminated the 2025 season with the UIL Class 6A Division I State Championship.  Coach Basden was named the Assistant Coach of the Year in 2025 by the National High School Baseball Coaches Association.

Prior to joining Midway ISD, Basden served as the Head Baseball Coach at Vanguard College Preparatory School from 2009 to 2014. Under his leadership, Vanguard earned three district championships, made five playoff appearances, and advanced to the State Semifinals. His teams established school records for single-season wins, career winning percentage, and career playoff victories.  Coach Basden was named Waco Trib's Super Centex Coach of the Year in 2009 during his tenure as the Head Baseball Coach at Vanguard Prep.

Throughout Coach Basden's coaching career he has continually served as Worship Leader for Crossroads Fellowship Church in Waco since 2006.

Coach Basden brings a wealth of experience in player development, program leadership, and competitive excellence. Throughout his coaching career, he has built a reputation for developing student-athletes both on and off the field, fostering a culture of accountability, discipline, and character while maintaining strong relationships with players and families.

"We are excited and proud to name Ben Basden as the leader of our baseball program," said Brad Shelton, Midway ISD Athletic Director. "Coach Basden possesses the character, leadership qualities, baseball knowledge, and commitment to student-athlete development that align with the values and expectations of Midway Athletics. His impact on our program over the past decade has been tremendous, and we are confident he will continue the tradition of excellence that Midway Baseball has established."

Midway ISD extends its appreciation to Coach Basden for his years of dedicated service and leadership and looks forward to the continued success of the Panther Baseball program under his direction.