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Tag: Basketball Coach

  • Tony Madlock Returns to Memphis Basketball

    Big news for the Memphis Tigers basketball program! Tony Madlock is returning to the sidelines as an associate head coach under Penny Hardaway. This marks a homecoming for Madlock, who previously served on Hardaway’s staff from 2018 to 2021 before heading to Alabama State University.

    A Familiar Face Returns

    The announcement came just a day after Madlock resigned from his head coaching position at Alabama State. His return to Memphis is a significant addition to the coaching staff, bringing nearly 30 years of Division I experience. Madlock, a Memphis native, also played for the University of Memphis alongside Hardaway during the 1991-92 season.

    Hardaway expressed his excitement about the new additions, stating, ‘I’m excited about the experience and energy this group brings to our program.’ He specifically highlighted Madlock’s ‘deep Memphis ties and head coaching success,’ along with the proven abilities of new assistant coaches Sean Mock and Trevor DeLoach in player development and recruiting.

    Madlock’s Success at Alabama State

    During his four years at Alabama State, Madlock led a remarkable turnaround. He was instrumental in transforming the program into a 20-win team, securing a SWAC championship, and making history with the program’s first NCAA Tournament victory. Last season, he was recognized as the HBCU Sports Coach of the Year after guiding Alabama State to the SWAC Championship game, a First Four appearance, and that historic NCAA Tournament win.

    The team finished the last season with an impressive 20-16 overall record and a 12-6 standing in the SWAC. Madlock’s coaching prowess and ability to develop talent are well-documented, making his return to Memphis a strategic move for the program’s continued growth and pursuit of postseason success.

    Building Towards Future Success

    With Madlock back at Hardaway’s side, along with the additions of Mock and DeLoach, the Memphis Tigers appear poised for a strong upcoming season. The blend of experience, local ties, and recruiting expertise on the coaching staff is a promising sign for the team’s ambitions.

    What are your expectations for the Memphis Tigers with Tony Madlock rejoining the coaching staff? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • NBA Legend Lenny Wilkens Dies at 88

    The basketball world is mourning the loss of a true legend. Lenny Wilkens, a revered figure as both a player and a coach, has passed away at the age of 88. His family announced his death on November 9th, surrounded by loved ones. Wilkens left an indelible mark on the game, earning accolades and respect throughout his storied career.

    A Legacy of Excellence and Respect

    NBA Commissioner Adam Silver paid tribute to Wilkens, calling him “the very best of the NBA – as a Hall of Fame player, Hall of Fame coach, and one of the game’s most respected ambassadors.” Silver highlighted Wilkens’ unique distinction of being named among the league’s 75 greatest players and 15 greatest coaches. His accomplishments extended beyond the court, including two Olympic gold medals and an NBA championship.

    Wilkens’ impact was deeply felt in his community, particularly in Seattle, where a statue stands in his honor. He was known not only for his basketball prowess but also for his unwavering commitment to service and his role as an extraordinary mentor who led with integrity and class. His influence touched countless young people and generations of players and coaches.

    Record-Breaking Coaching Career

    Lenny Wilkens holds the record for the most NBA games coached, with an astounding 2,487 games. After winning the 1994 NBA Coach of the Year award with the Atlanta Hawks, he retired from coaching with 1,332 wins, a record that has since been surpassed by Don Nelson and Gregg Popovich. His coaching journey included multiple stints with the Seattle SuperSonics (leading them to a championship in 1979), the Portland Trail Blazers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, and a final run with the New York Knicks.

    As a player, the New York City native had a distinguished 15-season career after being drafted by the St. Louis Hawks. He also played for the SuperSonics, Cavaliers, and Trail Blazers. Wilkens was a nine-time All-Star and was the second person ever inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach.

    A Lasting Tribute

    Wilkens was recently honored with a statue outside Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, a testament to his deep connection with the city and its fans. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, their children Leesha, Randy, and Jamee, and seven grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for the NBA, but his contributions and spirit will continue to inspire.

    What are your favorite memories of Lenny Wilkens’ career? Share your thoughts and tributes in the comments below.

  • George Raveling: A Basketball Trailblazer Remembered

    The world of basketball is mourning the loss of a true legend, George Raveling, who passed away at the age of 88 after a courageous battle with cancer. Raveling wasn’t just a coach; he was a trailblazer who broke barriers, shaped careers, and left an indelible mark on sports and civil rights history.

    Breaking Barriers on the Court

    Raveling’s coaching career was nothing short of historic. He made waves as the first Black head coach in the Pac-8 conference, leading Washington State from 1972 to 1983. He later coached at Iowa and USC, leaving a legacy of dedication and excellence. His impact extended beyond head coaching roles; he was also the first Black assistant coach in the ACC at Maryland and served as an assistant coach for the 1984 U.S. Olympic basketball team.

    His achievements were recognized with inductions into prestigious halls of fame, including the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015. These honors are a testament to his profound influence on the game.

    The Architect Behind a Legendary Deal

    Beyond his coaching prowess, Raveling played a pivotal role in one of the most iconic endorsement deals in sports history. While working for Nike as its global sports marketing director, he was instrumental in convincing a young Michael Jordan to sign with the company. Jordan himself acknowledged Raveling’s crucial influence, stating that Raveling was the one who urged him to choose Nike.

    Raveling’s connection to Jordan went back to the 1984 Olympics, where he consistently encouraged the future superstar to join the Nike team. He was also a close friend, serving as the best man at Sonny Vaccaro’s second wedding, the marketing executive who also played a key role in the Jordan deal.

    A Life of Service and Dignity

    Raveling’s impact stretched far beyond the realm of sports. A lesser-known but deeply significant part of his life was his role as a bodyguard at Martin Luther King Jr.’s March on Washington in 1963. He even acquired the original copy of MLK’s “I Have a Dream” speech, later donating it to his alma mater, Villanova University.

    Born in Washington, D.C., in 1937, Raveling experienced segregation firsthand. His family beautifully captured his journey: “Born in a segregated hospital and rising to the halls of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, George never lost his love for life, his resilience, his childlike curiosity, nor his unshakable belief in treating every person with dignity and respect.” He remained a lifelong learner, a kind soul, and a constant inspiration to others.

    What are your favorite memories or stories about George Raveling? Share them in the comments below to honor his incredible legacy.