"The Comeback Kid" Signs with Skyrockets

Published on November 1, 2006 under Continental Basketball Association 1 (CBA 1)
Minot Skyrockets News Release


Minot, ND - October 4, 2006 - Two years after a harrowing car accident, Lenny Cooke will be back in action with the Minot Skyrockets of the Continental Basketball Association. Months of rehabilitation, hard work, and determination have given him a second chance at the NBA dream.

Lenny Cooke was a basketball prodigy in high school, and after earning the MP award at the ABCD cam, Cooke was ranked the number one high school player in the country. In 2002, Cooke declared himself eligible for the NBA Draft, but an injury at the NBA Pre-Draft camp hurt his chances on being drafted. Lenny then went on to play in the Philippines and in China. The 6'6 Brooklyn native was the 2002 scoring champ and Rookie of the Year for USBL's Brooklyn Kings.

In December 2004, Cooke was involved in a major car accident. Cooke shattered his left femur and shin. Doctors thought they may have to amputate the leg, but after two extensive surgeries, were able to save the leg and the basketball dreams that he clung too. Told he would never play again, Cooke defied all odds and began practicing and working out on his own.

In November 2005, Cooke signed with the Rockford Lightning and new Skyrockets Head Coach Chris Daleo. He played in 20 games for the Lightning and proved he was still in the game. After 20 months of rehab, Cooke says he finally feels "totally healthy, 100%."

"Last year was a rehab year for Lenny. Our trainer and strength coach really worked to bring back the strength in Lenny's leg. Lenny played great in the summer Rucker tournament, now I hope that he can play for Minot," said Coach Daleo

Season tickets and mini-plans are still available for the 2006-2007 season. Season tickets can be purchased for general admission, silver, gold, and floor seats, and season ticket holders have the opportunity to pick their seats on a first-come, first-serve basis, but seats are filling up quickly so please come by the Skyrockets office located in the lower level of the Minot Municipal Auditorium. Fans who would like a mini-plan can choose from the Sweet 16, CBA Triple-Double, or the Winter Survival Pack. Details on mini-plans can be obtained by calling 839-SLAM. You can also request tickets by e-mailing tickets@minotskyrockets.com.



Continental Basketball Association 1 Stories from November 1, 2006


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central