CRETE - Nebraska's winningest high school girls basketball is hanging up the whistle. 

John Larsen, 72, finished his career with the Cardinals for his last four seasons, where he added another state title to his resume. Larsen won 638 games in his career, setting the record for most by any coach a year ago. 

After 29 consecutive winning seasons with Lincoln Southeast, the Nebraska High School hall of famer had been out of coaching for seven years before making his way back to the court, when he came to Crete. 

"Crete Public Schools has been blessed and honored to have Coach Larsen coach our girls team the past four seasons," Matt Martin, director of activities at Crete, said. "I know I speak for the entire Crete community in thanking coach for letting us all be a part of his legendary career."

Larsen's record breaking moment came on Feb. 12, 2021 when the Cardinals defeated Aurora 38-26, Larsen's 627th career win. 

Larsen plans to take more time for his children and grandchildren, while also continuing to own and operate the Press Box Bar and Grill in Lincoln.