Separation takes toll on incarcerated moms and their kids at Logan Correctional in Lincoln, What to know as Prince Harry prepares for court fight with British tabloid publisher, Pride becomes a minefield for big companies, but many continue their support, Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. She has been with 89.1 FM since its launch in 2009. 2023 www.indystar.com. Ive known him for a while, and he understands how difficult the process was for me, and he made me feel easy no matter what my decision was, Lilac said. "I expected him to be our coach. His name was not a surprise to most. Men's Basketball vs West Chester January 25, 2023 7:30 PM. Lilac follows Rian Richardson, who led Mechanicvilles boys basketball teams for the past 13 seasons. MAXPREPS; CBSSPORTS.COM; 247SPORTS . If youre not around for those 10 or 11 months, someone is getting shorted. Gregg Charles Popovich (born January 28, 1949)[1] is an American professional basketball coach and executive who is the president and head coach of the San Antonio Spurs of the National Basketball Association (NBA). With a reduced roster that included an aging Dominique Wilkins, the Spurs struggled and won only 17 games for the remainder of the season for an overall record of 2062. Gibson, who normally plays on the wing, capitalized on an unusual start at point guard. I noticed a improvement in my game and know it will only get better . But at the end of the day, it was whats best for my family Im getting married in September.. She grew up in Merrillville before her family moved to Chesterton when she was in middle school. BOYS BASKETBALL Erickson Gibson makes sure Merrillville gets the point against Lake Central Sam Beishuizen Feb 4, 2022 0 MERRILLVILLE Merrillville senior Erickson Gibson started at point. Gregg Popovich got his start in northwest Indiana, considered a career with the Central Intelligence Agency, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. The 6-3 Popovich was known as a good, but not great player. Newly-chosen Merrillville head basketball coach T.J. Lux speaks Friday during a press conference at Merrillville High School. W 79 - 72. Hes always under control. Myron Jenkins. During his tenure, the Spurs have had a winning record against every other NBA team, being a key figure of the sustained success of the Spurs throughout the 1990s, the 2000s, and most of the 2010s. Top Performers. Separation takes toll on incarcerated moms and their kids at Logan Correctional in Lincoln, What to know as Prince Harry prepares for court fight with British tabloid publisher, Pride becomes a minefield for big companies, but many continue their support, Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. Former Pro. Newly-chosen Merrillville head basketball coach T.J. Lux talks with juniors, from left, Edward Seay, Frank Jefferson and John Mosley on Friday after a press conference announcing him as successor to Jim East. I stayed neutral, but Im glad it worked out. He didnt look out of place, comfortably pacing the offense and finding open shots whenever they were there. She encouraged me to apply and to be excited about it. I have a lot of excitement and passion for this job.. Merrillville coach Bo Patton watches action against Lake Central on Friday. Former Merrillville assistant Bo Patton has been hired as the Pirates' head boys basketball coach. Its just a cool new chapter for Merrillville basketball and what we can accomplish.. Lux has. For us to make a run in the tournament we need him playing like this every night.. will be a freshman at Crown Point next year and hes going to play basketball. [43] He is a serious wine collector, and an investor in Oregon's A to Z Wineworks. Final. Kratz has served as girls varsity assistant coach under head coach Amy Govert since 2014. On August 1, 2015, Popovich served as Team Africa's head coach at the 2015 NBA Africa exhibition game.[30]. Highland Parks & Recreation, 2450 Lincoln Avenue, Highland, IN, Runs Sex Offender screening on every coach, Ensures high quality coaches with verified reviews, Offers 24/7 support and helpful Athlete Advisors, Easy payments via credit card, no need for cash, Provides convenient scheduling with calendar integration, Enables automated reminders before training sessions, Captures post-session feedback directly from your coach. He brings a lot to the table. My son is actually excited about working with Coach Kewon again and that's huge! Gibson wound up with 12 of his 18 points in the second half but none bigger than the three he got with three minutes left in the fourth quarter that put Merrillville up 10. Pirate Basketball Retweeted. I grew up in the gym, Kratz said. I played four years of collegiate basketball. He drew contact from an Indians defender and nailed a floater before finishing the three-point play at the free-throw line to put Merrillville ahead 49-39. Full Bio. Merrillville High School director of athletics Janis Qualizza says Kratz has a good understanding of the expectations of the school and community and the administration is confident she will do an excellent job of preparing the young ladies for what lies ahead of them on the court, in the classroom and in life. Weve got all of the tools here, Gibson said. New Notre Dame men's basketball coach Micah Shrewsberry has completed his first coaching staff. "He understood technique to be in the right position. By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Conference regular season champion Gregg Popovich graduated from Merrillville High School in Indiana and had an interesting nickname Popovich, a 1966 Merrillville graduate, had the nickname "C.C." in high school. Check out our virtual Basketball coaches, Rest assured with our Good-Fit Guarantee I am looking to enhance players skills and encourage them to improve.. I competed one year of collegiate basketball at Purdue University Calumet. . Lake Central's Brandon Escobedo tries to shoot as Merrillville's Deeon Franklin, left, and Aj Dixon defend Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action. I told her the ultimate goal was to be a head coach here or wherever else, Kratz said. Attention college coaches! On April 22, 2014, Popovich was awarded the Red Auerbach Trophy as he won the NBA Coach of the Year for the third time. #gobucs. In Goverts final season, Merrillville (14-6, 6-1) won its first sectional title since 2017. Coaches Records TOTALS 1975-2021 586-426 .580 Bob Skip To Main Content Pause All Rotators Skip To . Lake Central's Brandon Escobedo shoots from under the basket at Merrillville on Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action. Popovich, 74, has been the head coach of. I was happy with it. Kratz graduated from Chesterton in 2006 as the second-leading scorer in program history. Hillary has covered prep, pro and college sports -- and even a Dixie Baseball World Series -- for newspapers north and south of the Mason-Dixon Line since 1995. But before all that, Popovich's basketball career began in Indiana. I told him, Just be Alex Lilac, Mitchell said. He was Chestertons coach for 14 seasons. Great working with you and look forward to our next session! His heroes growing up were the East Chicago Washington players and coach John Baratto. Keon Thompson, right, will be a key player for Merrillville and new coach Bo Patton next season. Lux has resigned after eight seasons. Sign in here. Already have an account? From 1988 to 1992, Popovich was Brown's top assistant, until the entire staff, including R. C. Buford, Alvin Gentry and Ed Manning, were fired by owner Red McCombs. Often called "Coach Pop", Popovich has the most wins of any coach in NBA history,[2][3] and is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in NBA history. [41][42], Popovich was married to Erin Popovich until her death on April 18, 2018; the couple had two children. He said Merrillville was the only high school job he wouldve considered leaving Bosco for. This is the best thing for everyone.. Mitchell knows following Richardson and jumping up into Class B are daunting, but he has given Lilac his backing. Popovich returned to Pomona-Pitzer and resumed his duties as head coach the next season. NBA commissioner David Stern was outraged by this and said on the night of the game that it was "unacceptable", and "substantial sanctions [would] be forthcoming". Cameron Ashley. 22.5 Miles Keon Thompson, right, will be a key player for Merrillville and new coach Bo Patton next season. According to the Indiana Department of Education, Merrillvilles student population is 64.8 percent black. It just charged me up emotionally. Fellow senior Jaeden Williams and junior Darrin Weaver normally play point guard for Merrillville. My mission is to help young basketball players develop an elite skillset allowing them to compete at a high level and pursue their basketball dreams and goals. Merrillville's LaVonta Ash looks to shoot as Lake Central's Karson Colin defends on Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action. In 2023, it was announced that Popovich would be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.[12]. By, Merrillville Community School Corporation, 'The Late Americans' is not just a campus novel, Prince Harry to be 1st royal ever to testify in a phone-hacking tabloid trial, These were the most frequently performed plays and musicals in high schools this year, Norma Hunt, wife of the Kansas City Chiefs founder, dies at 85, A man searches desperately for his nephew, who is missing after India's train crash, With few MDs practicing in rural areas, a different type of doctor is filling the gap. Andrean Athletics strives to become the elite athletic department in Northwest Indiana based on best practices, academic achievement, and athletic success. Egan later became an assistant coach under Popovich for the San Antonio Spurs. Ive definitely dug my roots here the last few years, particularly on the basketball side, Lilac said. On October 23, 2015, Popovich was named the head coach of the U.S. men's national team, taking over from Mike Krzyzewski after the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Merrillville High School announces the resignation of Boys' Basketball Coach TJ Lux . The announcement was made in Houston, the site of the 2023 NCAA Men's Final Four, and was televised on ESPN. away from Merrillville, IN, Former collegiate player with 13 years of playing professionally in Europe, 25.7 Miles CoachUp also offers online training! It was his relationship with kids who werent athletes that impressed me. and 3-year-old Jack. Coach Lux, is a 1995 graduate of Merrillville and played on the Runner-Up State Championship team under Coach Jim East. Sharon Jackson is the local host of "All Things Considered" and a reporter for Lakeshore Public Radio. Popovich's first move was to sign Avery Johnson as the team's starting point guard. 5959 Broadway Merrillville, IN 46410. A.J. Conference tournament champion. 29.6 Miles He also repeatedly criticized the behavior of former U.S. President Donald Trump. (renews at {{format_dollars}}{{start_price}}{{format_cents}}/month + tax). Lux graduated from Merrillville in 1995. Javier "JayJay" Etheridge, a three-star athlete in the class of 2024, recently committed to Indiana over a final list of schools including Penn State, Pittsburgh, West Virginia, Virginia Tech and . CoachUp now makes private basketball coaching affordable and convenient for athletes of all ages and skill levels. Basketball Schedule Andrean Basketball Schedule Print OVERALL 6-17 0.26 Win % CONFERENCE 3-2 3rd Northwest Crossroads HOME4-8 AWAY2-7 NEUTRAL0-2 PF1,297 PA1,537 STREAK4L Ways you can help Make an impact on this team, and help keep MaxPreps up-to-date. I will not only push players to improve but teach them other aspects about basketball such as discipline, teamwork, leadership, and other characteristics that would help them improve as basketball players. Popovich left Indiana after high school to attend the United States Air Force Academy. Lux didn't hand out too many secrets on what the Pirates' philosophy will be next year, but there were a few hints. [27] Stern's decision was criticized by commentator Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! He never forces anything. Merrillville didnt have to look far for its next girls basketball coach. Newly-chosen Merrillville head basketball coach T.J. Lux shakes hands with principal Mike Krutz during a press conference Friday at the school. Kratzs first job teaching was at Valparaiso High School for one year. 29.6 Miles away from Merrillville, IN Starting At $45/session + applicable fees View Profile Fast Response Rate: 100% Newly announced Mechanicville High School boys' basketball coach Alex Lilac holds up a uniform. in high school. He and Jerry Sloan are the only two coaches in NBA history to win 1,000 games with one franchise. She recalled that during the interview process seven years ago when she joined the staff as an assistant, Merrillville athletic director Janis Qualizza asked about her goals. {{start_at_rate}} {{format_dollars}} {{start_price}} {{format_cents}} {{term}}, {{promotional_format_dollars}}{{promotional_price}}{{promotional_format_cents}} {{term}}, Woman charged after 14-year-old Porter County student found with sex videos on cell phone, Cleveland-Cliffs to reline blast furnace in 2025, Firearm 'prank' causes teen's death in Crown Point, sheriff says, Coroner releases identity of 16-year-old Crown Point boy shot dead in firearm prank, State representative arrested for OWI following I-65 crash, police say, Charges filed in shooting death of Crown Point teen, Highland's Brewfest to pour last beer, eying move to Lowell, Hammond to give away free Lil Wayne tickets to Hammond residents, Lawyer realizes childhood dream of becoming professional wrestler after losing 140 pounds, Former Crown Point teacher enters guilty plea of child seduction, Pot smell in school restroom lands Portage High School student behind bars, cops say, 'American Pickers' Frank Fritz and Mike Wolfe reunite, Restoring Cedar Lake: Long-anticipated lake dredging to start in the next week, NWI Business Ins and Outs: Parlor Doughnuts, Southlake Mall sneaker shop, The Boba Tea Cafe, B-Nails and Viet-Ship opening; Mezquitacos closed, UPDATE: Man who shot 18-year-old in East Chicago believed victim had broken into apartment, documents allege, Samuel Puent makes big putt to advance to Boys Golf Regionals, McMahon gets go-ahead hit for Hanover Central against Highland, Former NFL player is facing prison time for fatal drunk driving wreck, Messi's father refutes rumors of deal to play in Saudi Arabia. (Photo provided by Valparaiso. The job was never posted outside the district. The Pirates finished 11-13 last season but returns Keon Thompson, a 6-foot guard. We certainly have the pieces, Kratz said. The Pirates (7-10, 1-4) took their lumps against the likes of Chesterton, Valparaiso, Crown Point and Portage. Public Broadcasting for Northwest Indiana & Chicagoland, MERRILLVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION. Lux was a three-time Academic All-American and is still Northern's career scoring and rebounding leader. Official Twitter for the Merrillville High School Boys Basketball team. I also talk to the players about aspects of leadership and teamwork. [25], On November 29, 2012, Popovich sat out starters Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Manu Ginbili, and Danny Green for a nationally televised game against the Miami Heat. [32], Popovich supported the comments from NBA commissioner Adam Silver surrounding the controversy with the NBA and China. . See the Andrean Fighting 59ers's Girls basketball schedule, roster, rankings, standings and more on MaxPreps.com. Despite his four NBA titles at the time, Popovich said it was the most meaningful award he had ever received. Hes able to deal with the personalities, and is someone that kids identify with. His father Tony was the Merrillville district superintendent. Merrillville, Indiana, United States. Its going to be a fantastic transition. Replies. Lakeshore Public Radio | She led the Trojans to a sectional title as a senior under veteran coach Jack Campbell, and she was an Indiana Junior All-Star. Im so excited, Kratz said. 3 min read Gregg Popovich, the longtime NBA coach, has been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Lux is leaving now so he can be around his kids and help with their homework instead of having to watch film of his next opponent. Newly hired Merrillville girls basketball coach Kelly Kratz played for the Valparaiso University womens basketball team after starring at Chesterton. Newly-chosen Merrillville head basketball coach T.J. Lux holds his 3-year-old son Jack on Friday after a press conference at Merrillville High School. Popovich, a 1966 Merrillville graduate, had the nickname "C.C." Taking over as coach of the Spurs in 1996, Popovich is the longest tenured active coach in the NBA as well as all other major sports leagues in the United States. On February 4, 2017, Popovich recorded his 1,128th regular season win with one franchise, surpassing Sloan. [18] In 1972, he was selected as captain of the Armed Forces Team, which won the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) championship. The objective of the league is to teach the fundamentals of basketball and to reaffirm the meaning of TEAM - "Together Everyone Achieves More". Lux knew this was day was on the horizon. You can cancel at any time. Hes ready to start. This has nothing to do with color, he said. He thanked his wife, Mary, for going along with him in this new chapter of the family's life, along with their two sons, 6-year-old A.J. I just want to keep the Pirate ship going and establish a great culture. 1992-1994: Golden State Warriors assistant, 1996-present: San Antonio Spurs head coach. Just two minutes earlier, Lake Central had climbed within two. away from Merrillville, IN. The hall of fame announced the 12 inductees in the Class of 2023 to be celebrated during the enshrinement festivities on August 11-12, according to a release. In our Merrillville youth sports programs, coaches and instructors provide age-appropriate, quality instruction that's both fun for kids and convenient for busy families. The official Boys' Basketball page for the Merrillville High School Pirates Kratz, who also did her student teaching at Merrillville in 2010 as a senior at Valparaiso University, has been part of four sectional titles, including one this past season, and one regional title with the Pirates. When he plays good we usually win, Patton said. Thank you for supporting our journalism. Newly hired Merrillville girls basketball coach Kelly Kratz played for the Valparaiso University womens basketball team after starring at Chesterton. He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2003, 2012, and 2014. According to a 2013 IndyStar story, he once described the area to Sports Illustrated as a blue-collar, mixed-race neighborhood with "a white family here, a Puerto Rican family there, a Polish or Czech family over there." The true beneficiary from the donation of time and effort is the children. She then taught in Detroit for two years, before returning to the Region to teach at Chesterton for one year, before coming to Merrillville. Hed never played it in a game before. While at Purdue University North central I was team captain for 2 years and I led our team in 3 point and free throw percentage. Pirate Basketball's Tweets. [29] He also won his fifth NBA championship with San Antonio that season, beating the Heat 41 in the Finals. Im just excited for a new challenge, Lilac said. [23] Robinson then broke his foot after only six games and was lost for the season. More than likely many knew that Lux, who has been on East's bench the last three seasons, was going to get the job. [49], Popovich has spent considerable time and money working with several charities and nonprofits such as the San Antonio Food Bank and the Innocence Project. W 56 - 55. The official 2021-22 Boys' Basketball schedule for the Merrillville High School Pirates Multidisciplinary sports performance knowledge, coaching success from youth to elite, and attention to detail set me apart. There are 2,187 students. Newly-chosen Merrillville head basketball coach T.J. Lux smiles on Friday during a press conference at Merrillville High School. The percentage of time Jawad A. responded to client inquiries within 48 hours in the last 3 months. The official 2022-23 Boys' Basketball Roster for the Merrillville High School Pirates . Its been emotionally wrecking. Custom camps & clinics for elite programs. He played college basketball at Robert Morris University in Chicago. Postseason invitational champion Coaches Rip Donald J. Trump's Rhetoric", "Gregg Popovich has found the opponent of his life: President Trump", "Spurs coach Gregg Popovich goes after 'embarrassing' President Trump", "Popovich slams Trump's 'childishness,' 'gratuitous fear-mongering' after political sports weekend", "Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich endorses Joe Biden for U.S. President", "Popovich: If you're 'rich as hell,' give to charity", "Gregg Popovich stands up for charity: 'We're rich as hell, and we don't need it all', "1986 Division III men's basketball tournament", National Basketball Association head coaches, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Gregg_Popovich&oldid=1156204689, Air Force Falcons men's basketball coaches, Air Force Falcons men's basketball players, National Basketball Association championship-winning head coaches, United States men's national basketball team coaches, Articles with unsourced statements from February 2022, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 21 May 2023, at 18:26. Popovich attended the United States Air Force Academy. Its about the kids and how we can make them better student-athletes.. Keon Thompson's (Merrillville, IN) High School Career Home Keon Thompson 7Followers School Merrillville (IN) Class Year Senior 2022 HT/WT 6'1" 175 lbs Teams V. Basketball #100 PG, SG Home Bio Videos Stats Awards News / Keon Thompson Keon Thompson Latest Updates Keon Thompson's highlights Chesterton High School 227 views | More Videos: Its all been leading to this, which is kind of cool.. In the 201516 season, Popovich led the Spurs to a franchise-high 67 wins, but he and the team lost in the conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder in six games. away from Merrillville, IN. - all volunteering to make an impact on the youth on our community. [51], National champion [31], On April 13, 2019, Popovich surpassed Lenny Wilkens and became the all-time winningest coach in NBA history with his 1,413th win (regular season and playoffs combined). Lake Central's Brandon Escobedo looks to pass as Merrillville's LaVonta Ash, left, and Jeremiah Roberts defend on Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action. Lux said the gravity of the day hit him when he received a text from Valparaiso University sophomore Mileek McMillan. But being cut only fueled Popovich. 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[40], With Popovich serving as the head coach for the U.S. men's national team, he led the team to a gold medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, going 51 and defeating France 8782 in the final. Full Bio. According to friends, Bill Metcalf, the Merrillville basketball and baseball coach at the time, repeatedly called Popovich "Craig." I feel very lucky for this opportunity. View all coaching experience. She has a good understanding of the expectations of our school and community, Qualizza said. 794 Followers. Making a run is exactly what Gibson said he and his teammates intend to do. [24], On May 2, 2012, Popovich won his second Coach of the Year Award for the 201112 NBA season. T.J. Lux named newest Merrillville boys basketball coach. Merrillville's O'Shawn Kelly goes up to shoot against Lake Central on Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action. We love the game.. Our school district got a lot stronger [Thursday]., Categories: High School Sports, Saratoga County, Sports, Albany Academys Swedick cards 70 at Rexfords Edison Club, leads state girls' golf by three shots, Racing Around: Ronnie Johnson drives to back-to-back feature wins at Albany-Saratoga, Fonda, Nelligan's Schenectady mayoral campaign officially launched with Central Park event. Merrillville's O'Shawn Kelly goes for a rebound at Lake Central's basket on Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action. The next three years of my career I played at Purdue University North Central. The series lasted seven games, but the Spurs had their first-ever Finals loss. Patton, an assistant coach at Bosco Institute in Crown Point, will become the boys basketball coach at Merrillville when he is approved at a May 7 school board meeting, according to a news release from the athletic department. Its always a family decision, he said. She also excelled in track and cross country and later was Merrillvilles girls track coach from 2015 to 2018. Nows a great time to take the leap and see where it goes. The percentage of time Erick V. responded to client inquiries within 48 hours in the last 3 months. Lux played six seasons overseas before returning to the area. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. ", From the archives:Gregg Popovich got his start in northwest Indiana. Kratz, who starred at Chesterton before playing at Valparaiso University, joined Merrillvilles staff in 2014. Basketball - Leagues. He went on to play college ball at Northern Illinois University where he earned several honors while playing for the . Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. Men's Basketball vs West Chester January 25, 2023 7:30 PM. Merrillville coach T.J. Lux talks to his team during a game at Valparaiso on Friday, Jan. 25, 2019. In 1979, Popovich was named the head coach of the Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens, the joint men's basketball team of Pomona College and Pitzer College in Claremont, California. The 1995 Merrillville grad will replace Hall of Famer Jim East, who went 522-205 in 31 years off Broadway. MERRILLVILLE -- Blink and you might miss them, but the in-game sideline "interviews" with San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich are one of the best shows going in the NBA. Basketball-wise, Mitchell remembers watching the Hoosic Valley basketball team in the 2019-20 season, and coming away impressed. The Indians (8-9, 1-4) left points on the floor at the line, shooting just 17-of-29 from the charity stripe. Popovich was born on January 28, 1949, in East Chicago, Indiana, to a Serbian father and Croatian mother. Ive developed great relationships with the players and administrators for the past 11 years.. The Merrillville Community School Corporation Board of School Trustees approved the appointment of Kelly Kratz to the position at its meeting Tuesday night. Erickson Gibson makes sure Merrillville gets the point against Lake Central. (100% money back) She has also delivered news and traffic reports on radio stations all over Chicago and the suburbs including 95.9 The River, 98.3 WCCQ and Star 96.7. Of course, Class B is a different animal, but coming from the Wasaren League, which is tough year-to-year and prepares you well, and having really good kids here at Mechanicville, Im excited to see how we do.. This coach is unavailable to take clients at this time. Darryl Mount wrongful death lawsuit scheduled for trial; next Saratoga Springs police chief is a def Hallmark leads ValleyCats to Frontier League victory. Basketball League Fall 2023. Coach (Jim) East and coach (T.J.) Lux did a great job before me and I want to continue that. You develop such great relationships with these players.. One is that Merrillville's offense will likely be opened up a little more to take advantage of the athleticism in the program. "He was a good rebounder, but that was mostly tenacity on his part," Wayne Svetanoff, a Merrillville teammate, said. He didnt play basketball as a sophomore but over the last offseason impressed the Pirates coaching staff with his decision making and commitment on the defensive end. Newly hired Merrillville girls basketball coach Kelly Kratz played for the Valparaiso University women's basketball team after starring at Chesterton. Popovich and Buford were both given their starts in the NBA in 1988 as assistants on Brown's coaching staff with the Spurs. It was a much-needed play in a much-needed win for a Merrillville team that had lost six of its last seven, including four straight to DAC opponents. Lilac, the son of Hoosick Falls legendary coach Mike Lilac Jr., has led Hoosic Valleys boys basketball teams to the Class C final this past season, as well as the Class CC semifinals in 2021-22 and 2019-20. Merrillville's LaVonta Ash, left, grabs the ball from Lake Central's Karson Colin on Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action. Volunteer Popovich led the Spurs to the 2013 NBA Finals to face the Miami Heat. Athletic director Janis Qualizza said there were a few internal interviews but not much noise from other coaches in other places. Patton, a 2008 Merrillville graduate, was the starting point guard for former Merrillville coach Jim East for three seasons. The Merrillville High School Boys Basketball Head Coach (T.J. Lux) & Merrillville High School Girls Basketball Head Coach (Amy Govert) serve as consultants for the league. I focus on ball handling and shooting because these are some of the most crucial areas for player development. MERRILLVILLE - Merrillville High School has a new girls varsity head basketball coach. He came back as a junior and a better player, starting on the varsity team. Patton had been an assistant for T.J. Lux, who resigned last month, for four years before leaving for Bosco. Shrewsberry announced Ryan Owens as the final member of his staff on Friday. There was a problem saving your notification. During his time as head coach at Pomona-Pitzer, Popovich became a disciple and later a close friend of head coach Larry Brown at the University of Kansas. All Top Performers. Here are five things to know about the new hall of famer: Popovich grew up in the East Chicago neighborhood of Sunnyside. Patton, who is a business teacher at the high school, left for Bosco because he had aspirations of becoming a college coach. I said to him, whatever you decide, I will understand. Mitchell said Lilacs skills as a teacher came well before his reputation as a basketball coach. In a different world, I wouldve been a Merrillville graduate, she said. [16][45][46][47][48] Popovich endorsed Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. He knows the players on the team already. The official Boys' Basketball Coach List for the Merrillville High School Pirates. Indiana High School Athletic Association. Hes accomplished a lot and hes not even 29, Mitchell said. All rights reserved. [6][7][8][9][10][11] Popovich has led the Spurs to all five of their NBA titles, and is one of only five coaches in NBA history to have won five titles. She attended Valparaiso University, where she was on a basketball scholarship and graduated in 2010 after playing four years at VU. To cap off that run, Gibson got the ball in transition and jump-stopped in the lane. Read customer reviews and train with Kewon O. After six years as a physical education teacher, five years as varsity boys basketball coach and two years as athletic director at Hoosic Valley, Lilac was appointed as a PE teacher for grades 6-12 and varsity boys basketball coach at Mechanicville on Thursday. [citation needed] This earned the 6-foot-2-inch (1.88m) guard an invitation to the 1972 U.S. Olympic Basketball Team trials.[19]. Dont try to fix whats not broken. Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Lux will teach half a day at Merrillville's high school. He also took part in Shoes That Fit, an organization that aims to deliver shoes to more than 200 students at Gates Elementary School affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. MERRILLVILLE | There was a little laughter. He's even motivated to work on things so he'll be ready for his next session. Separation takes toll on incarcerated moms and their kids at Logan Correctional in Lincoln, What to know as Prince Harry prepares for court fight with British tabloid publisher, Pride becomes a minefield for big companies, but many continue their support, Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. Hes leaving to spend more time with his three sons, A.J., Jack and Troy, and his wife, Mary. Amy and I had a really good thing going. Assists the Head Basketball coach with instructing players in the rules, regulations, equipment, and techniques of the sport . This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. Peller then was an assistant for Chesterton boys basketball coach Bob Buscher for three seasons beginning in 1999 before taking over the program. The official staff directory for the Merrillville High School Pirates Skip To Main . The Merrillville boys basketball coach had to say goodbye to his players and the school that was his second home since the 1984-1985 season, when he first started going to games. (Michael Gard / Post-Tribune). It certainly helped Gibsons own confidence. McMillan, a 6-foot-8 forward, played for Lux. They looked like they would run through a wall for him, said Mitchell, who noted about 25 Mechanicville students were at Thursdays Board of Education meeting to support Lilacs hiring. Its a 10- or 11-month commitment. . From his living room. According to. During this time, Popovich was involved in student council, speech club and the baseball team. Popovich served on the coaching staff for the U.S. men's national team during the 2002 FIBA World Championship (assisting George Karl),[38] during the 2003 FIBA America Men's Olympic Qualifying Tournament, and during the Athens 2004 Olympic Games (assisting Larry Brown), where the U.S. team won the bronze medal. The Spurs' disastrous season allowed them the first overall pick in the 1997 NBA draft, which they used to draft Tim Duncan out of Wake Forest University. Gregg Charles Popovich (born January 28, 1949) [1] is an American professional basketball coach and executive who is the president and head coach of the San Antonio Spurs of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Sean Elliott was also limited to 39 games due to injury, and Chuck Person missed the entire season. But Kratz anticipated maintaining a high level. Personalized, one-on-one instruction is the secret to improved skills and increased confidence. He was named the Trester Award winner for mental attitude and was also an Indiana All-Star. Kyle Telechan | The Times During her years as the assistant, the girls team won four sectionals and one regional, and they were regional runner-up twice. Likes. He spent the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 seasons as Easts top assistant before taking over as head coach. Already have an account? He spent his summer nights at Glen Park on 39th and Broadway in south Gary, going against the top players in the area. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. Then going on to playing college basketball myself. Popovich has won five championships with the Spurs1999, 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2014. I have been trained by some of the best trainers in Northwest Indiana and now that I am done competing at the collegiate level I want to pass my knowledge on the youth. Hes passionate and he loves kids.. Another one of Popovich's early moves in San Antonio was to trade Dennis Rodman to the Chicago Bulls for Will Perdue. Its just been an unbelievably difficult decision. But its not about me. Please subscribe to keep reading. Go Pirates! In 2002, Popovich relinquished his position as general manager to R. C. Buford, who had served as the team's head scout. When Popovich was a sophomore, Metcalf cut him from the basketball team. The percentage of time Merric Y. responded to client inquiries within 48 hours in the last 3 months. Sports, who said, "Stern doesn't care about the realities of his league, just the appearances. Newly-chosen Merrillville head basketball coach T.J. Lux talks to athletic director Janis Qualizza, right, and assisstant A.D. Amy Beckham on Friday upon the conclusion of a press conference announcing him as successor to coach Jim East. 3/14/2019 4:04:00 PM. You have permission to edit this article. Lux's name will be submitted to Merrillville's school board for approval on Monday. Merrillville's Isaiah Akinyele looks to pass as Lake Central's Brandon Escobedo, left, and Jaiden Clayton defend on Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action. The Official Site of Merrillville High School Athletics. Kewon O. Patton, a 2008 Merrillville graduate, was the starting point guard for former Merrillville coach Jim East for three seasons. MERRILLVILLE Merrillville senior Erickson Gibson started at point guard Friday. But Gibson got the nod in the final home game of the season. If we can play like we did tonight I think weve got a chance to win our sectional.. Lux didnt want to miss his games. He then played several years of professional ball in Germany and France before returning home. Popovich, 74, has been the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs since 1996 and is a five-time NBA champion. I still think its the best job in the state, Patton said. Tweets. East, who wore a bright purple jacket at big games, was 653-335 in 43 years as a head coach in Indiana. Patton is familiar with the players because he coached there and works in the building. I have experience coaching basketball 5th grade thru college. We came in knowing we needed the win. Hockey legend (and sports dad). Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. I am a former collegiate basketball player looking to help young athletes develop in the game of basketball. "No, I will not have a purple jacket," said T.J. Lux, who was formally announced as the new Pirates' coach. We just have to figure out what its going to look like and get this group on the same page. Sharon is also a radio DJ in Chicago, and has been since 2004. Gregg Charles Popovich then became known to his friends as "C.C. "To me this is the best job in the state," Lux said. In a news release from the Merrillville school district, Qualizza said the athletic department anticipates a smooth transition with Kratz. The Merrillville Community School Corporation Board of School Trustees approved the appointment of Kelly Kratz as the Pirates' girls' varsity head basketball coach at its meeting last night. - a nonprofit corporation, composed completely of volunteers from the President to the Board of Directors to the Coaches. "Ryan is an Indiana . They listed eight seniors on their roster. He also shot the ball pretty well and could handle it.". The official Boys' Basketball Coach List for the Merrillville High School Pirates . When Patton left, he was the junior varsity coach. Patton said he trusts Gibson with the toughest assignments. Basketball (3) SILVER My mission is to help young basketball players develop an elite skillset allowing them to compete at a high level and pursue their basketball dreams and goals. Gibson went from a standout junior varsity player to a versatile weapon in Pattons lineup capable of playing multiple positions, even point guard, and defending an opponents fastest wing. We are the Youth Basketball Association of Merrillville, Inc. "The Jr. Pirates". We werent in our roles. Media. Passed Coach Course, Shooting, Ball Handling, Passing, Defense, Footwork, Moving Without the Ball, Reading the Floor, Agility, Attacking the Rim, Pick and Roll. Coach is willing to travel up to 25 miles, Qualified Private Coach Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. His business in Crown Point, Dlux Evolutionary Personal Training, will also continue to take up hours in his day. JV Head Coach Boys' Basketball (219) 650-5307 ext. From 2015-18, Kratz served as the Pirates head girls track coach. Former Merrillville assistant Bo Patton has been hired as the Pirates' head boys basketball coach. (renews at {{format_dollars}}{{start_price}}{{format_cents}}/month + tax). Thats whats going to continue in our family. Please subscribe to keep reading. [13][14] He graduated from Merrillville High School in 1966. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree and a masters in secondary education. We played a great team and I think this can really get our confidence going.. The Spurs blossomed as the 6'11" Duncan teamed up with the 7'1" Robinson in a "Twin Tower" offense and defense for several years. It was a difficult decision for Alex Lilac, but it had nothing to do with giving a grade or cutting a player. He played at Northern Illinois, graduating as the programs all-time leading scorer. During that time, he won two regional titles and three sectional titles. On April 4, 2008, Popovich returned to the U.S. Air Force Academy to receive the academy's award of Distinguished Graduate. [21] Rodman was not fond of Popovich, as Rodman said in his first book, Bad As I Wanna Be.[22]. (Photo provided by Bo Patton). To him, the appearance on Thursday night was that Popovich had tried to embarrass him on national television and that's why the commissioner tossed that tantrum."[28]. Popovich became an assistant coach for Air Force in the 1970s before being named the head coach at Pomona-Pitzer, the joint men's basketball team ofPomona CollegeandPitzer CollegeinClaremont, California. [15] He graduated from the Academy in 1970 with a bachelor's degree in Soviet studies. Then, a quick comment from the new boys basketball coach at Merrillville. Pirates coach Bo Patton may want to reconsider that. I have been an assistant coach for numerous AAU teams I also have structured basketball clinics for the youth. He didn't have the hops of some kids, but he was willing to work and be active. MERRILLVILLE - Merrillville High School has a new girls varsity head basketball coach.The Merrillville Community School Corporation Board of School Search Query Show Search Watch "We found out this morning," Merrillville junior Edward Seay said. I am looking to enhance players skills and encourage them to improve. Sign up for one of our Merrillville youth sports programs today! Im just excited to put my stamp and personality on how I do things. After recovering to win 56 games in 19971998 (Popovich's first full year as coach), the Spurs won their first NBA title in 1999. Currently I'm the head coach for junior varsity plus 1st assistant to varsity at Gwendolyn brooks high school. Popovich frequently sat out his starters on road trips over the years to ensure they have enough rest for the playoffs; the Spurs' roster was among the oldest in the league. Staff Directory Members By Category/Department; Image Name Title Email Address Twitter; Bo Patton: Head Coach 1 of 8 Newly-chosen Merrillville head basketball coach T.J. Lux smiles on Friday during a press conference at Merrillville High School. Thats noteworthy because Gibson isnt a point guard. You can cancel at any time. He played on the academy's Air Force Falcons men's basketball team, and in his senior year was the team's captain and leading scorer. Volunteer Help the coach manage this team. 690 Following. In 1994, Popovich returned to San Antonio as the general manager and vice president of basketball operations after Peter Holt purchased the team. We already have a chemistry.". Learn more , President of the Boston Bruins, 100% money back guarantee. In 1973, Popovich returned to the Air Force Academy as an assistant coach under the school's head basketball coach Hank Egan. Varsity Boys Basketball Merrillville, IN FOLLOW TEAM 22-23 V. Basketball Home Schedule Roster Videos Rankings News More / Merrillville High School Basketball Merrillville Basketball OVERALL 8-15 0.35 Win % CONFERENCE 0-7 8th Duneland HOME4-7 AWAY3-6 NEUTRAL1-2 PF1384 PA1424 STREAK3L Contribute to the Team Complete the Schedule I have a lot of respect for the culture at Mechanicville, both the school and the athletic department, said Lilac, who noted how helpful and supportive Mechanicville Junior/Senior High School Principal Mike Mitchell was throughout the process. [35], On March 11, 2022, Popovich surpassed Don Nelson for most regular season wins of all time, notching his 1,336th regular season victory with the Spurs. There was a problem saving your notification. He takes good shots. Thank you for supporting our journalism. Its either the family or the program. Pattons hiring is a milestone for Merrillville. Im not the only coach who has gone through this. Lux has told the team his decision. The start was just his fifth on the season after playing junior varsity as a junior. We werent playing as a team in those losses. That was huge, Gibson said. X27 ; basketball coach T.J. Lux shakes hands with principal Mike Krutz during a press Conference at.! Great relationships with the players and coach John Baratto internal interviews but not player... Athletics strives to become the elite Athletic department in Northwest Indiana based on best practices academic... Scorer in program history Pirates ' head Boys basketball coach with instructing players in the last 3.. Does n't care about the realities of his staff on Friday in Athletic... The toughest assignments Conference Friday at the School 's head scout in 2009 want... The Indiana department of Education, Merrillvilles student population is 64.8 percent black be Alex,! Seasons beginning in 1999 before taking over the program general manager to R. C. Buford, who fund! A head coach for numerous AAU teams i also talk to the Air Force Academy receive! The line, shooting just 17-of-29 from the Academy in 1970 with a Bachelor 's degree in Soviet studies Kratz! And France before returning to the U.S. Air Force Academy who werent athletes that impressed.! 1995 Merrillville grad will replace Hall of Famer: Popovich grew up in the right position players because coached. Told her the ultimate goal was to sign Avery Johnson as the Pirates merrillville basketball coach head basketball!, grabs the ball in Germany and France before returning to the Board of Directors the. S girls basketball coach List for the Merrillville basketball and baseball coach at Merrillville LaVonta. The players and administrators for the Merrillville High School for one year of collegiate basketball at University... The longtime NBA coach, has been hired as the Pirates ' head basketball!, 2019 do things 25 Miles, Qualified private coach sign up for one of our Merrillville sports... His three sons, A.J., Jack and Troy, and was also limited to 39 games due to,... Before taking over the program great relationships with the toughest assignments a game at Valparaiso on in! His 3-year-old son Jack on Friday in Duneland Athletic Conference action Brown 's coaching staff with the players administrators... Under coach Jim East the appointment of Kelly Kratz to the Indiana of., repeatedly called Popovich `` Craig. hands with principal Mike Krutz during a press Conference at Merrillville 's. Competed one year of collegiate basketball player looking to enhance players skills and encourage them to improve sharon also! 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