Former Player and Sharp Shooter Chris Weakley Named as Snohomish County Explosion Head Coach

December 19, 2008 - International Basketball League (IBL)
Snohomish County Explosion News Release


MONROE, Wash. - December 19th, 2008 - Former player and sharp shooter Chris Weakley will be the new Head Coach of the Explosion in 2009.

"Weakley replaces Randy Redwine, who stepped down two weeks ago for personal reasons and looks to take his intensity from the court and translate this to coaching. Due to the weather in Snohomish County, the press conference will be delayed but it was important to make the announcement today as recruiting for the Explosion organization starts this weekend in Portland at the IBL open tryouts," said General Manager Brad Sturlaugson.

Sturlaugson cited Weakley's close relationship with the organization, the community, and the IBL as being important factor's in the hiring. "I have known Chris for many years and have been impressed with him as a player and a person. Of course there are areas that he will need to work on, but he has a keen understanding of the organization and direction that the Explosion is looking for in the 2009 season. This fit is perfect for the team and Chris as the next step in his career."

When asked about the surprise hiring of Weakley, after six other candidates were interviewed, Sturlaugson explained, "We knew early in the interview process that Chris was one of our top choices. We kept coming back to Chris because of his passion for the game and his experience with the organization and the community. Chris has had coaching experience, and this is the next logical step in his new career path. I think the fans will enjoy Chris as a coach every bit as much as they did a player. He has a real interest in not only the game of basketball, but also the support of the sponsors and fans. Chris will bring a different level of enthusiasm to the bench. It should be fun to watch the team's style of play this season and I expect all out action from start to finish, you wont want to leave your seat."

Chris Weakley is a graduate of Austin High School in Decatur, AL, where he was a four year letterman in football, basketball, and baseball. He was also drafted by the Mets in 1993, after graduating High School. After two seasons of baseball with the Mets, he attended Southern Union Junior College in Alabama. While there he played for coach Ron Rafford, as a starter for one year. After Southern he signed to attend University of Illinois. After one season he had to leave the university due to family concerns. He was out of school for a year, and then transferred to Salem International University in West Virginia. He played two years of basketball under now Head Coach for the women's team West Virginia University, Mike Carey. He graduated with a criminal law degree. From there proceeded to play pro basketball. During his playing career he set an NJCAA record for most three point field goals in a single tournament game hitting thirteen out of twenty-one baskets from beyond the arc. He averaged 25.5 points per game during this season before moving up the Salem International. His post season accolades include setting an IBL record hitting ten three point baskets in 2007. After his collegiate career, Weakley endured 6 different minor league teams on his journey to the Explosion. Weakley has played professional ball overseas and helped coaching in the minor leagues the last 4 months in California.

He coached at Prince Avenue Prep in South Carolina for a year and a half where he was able to accomplish winning a national championship, while posting a 48-2 record, and graduating 12 blue chip players. He has had the opportunity to learn from great coaches such as Don Casey former coach of the L.A. Clippers, and Orlando Woolridge, former WNBA coach and current ABA coach, and Randy Redwine former coach for the Explosion in the IBL. As previously stated he has had the opportunity to experience pro basketball not only as a player, but also to learn the game from world level players and coaches giving him a unique amount of knowledge at such a young age. He feels extremely privileged and excited for the opportunity to coach and be affiliated with this organization, having played two seasons here For more on Coach Weakley, please contact Explosion GM Brad Sturlaugson at (425) 328 -9823, or Owner Nathan Mumm at 206-369-1510 for a contact to reach coach Weakley, and more information can be provided. Explosion Basketball is a part of Courtyard Media Foundation and competes in the International Basketball League. All Photos are public domain and can be reprinted for the purpose of this announcement.



International Basketball League Stories from December 19, 2008


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