Veteran EK Miner Crain returns to Expo Center
September 9, 2008 - Continental Basketball Association 1 (CBA 1)
East Kentucky Miners News Release
PIKEVILLE, KY. - Former Valdosta State guard Mike Crain couldn't wait to step foot back onto the East Kentucky Expo Center hardwood. Crain, who earned an All-CBA Rookie Team honor for the Miners during the 2007-08 season, feels at home inside the Expo Center. In fact, he'd like to spend a second winter playing for the Miners. Crain joined a talented group of players for the East Kentucky Miners free agent camp held Saturday, Sept. 6. The CBA award-winner quickly established himself as one of the top players in the free agent camp. Crain has spent the offseason getting ready for the 2008-09 season.
Over the summer, Crain played in a pro-am league in Atlanta. The Atlanta league featured many ex-college and current professional players. He also played in tournaments in Georgia and Louisiana.
"I want to come back and have the chance to play here," Crain said during a break in the free agent camp. "I'm excited about the possibility of coming back to East Kentucky and playing for the Miners."
On the hardwood, Crain favors an uptempo style. He was a perfect match for Miners head coach Kevin Keathley's fast-paced brand of basketball. "Coach Keathley is a great coach," Crain commented. "I love his style of play. That's my style of play. It compliments my game."
Crain became a quick fan favorite for the Miners.
"This is a great place to play," Crain said, gazing out onto the Expo Center gym floor that features a Miners logo at halfcourt. "It's a great atmosphere. The fans are tremendous. Pikeville is like a second home to me."
"It was good to see Mike Crain down here for the free agent camp," said Keathley. "He didn't have to come down here but he did. That says a lot about his commitment, dedication and desire to play here again. I like players who have a loyalty to a basketball team."
Crain averaged 10 points per game for the Miners during the team's debut season. The Georgia native was one of the top 20 three-point shooters in the CBA.
Note: This is the second in a five-part series on the Miners free agent camp. Next up: A look at former Georgetown College standout Justin Taylor and his free agent camp experience.
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