Yesterday, former Bakersfield Jam assistant coach Rod Baker was named the first coach in the history of the Delaware 87ers. It took a full week for the Sevens to officially announce the move: Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports first reported the news on November 6.
Sometimes dreams do come true #togetherwebuild
— Rod Baker (@coachbake44) November 14, 2013
After graduating from Holy Cross in 1974, Baker began building an extensive coaching resume that includes stops at Columbia, St. Joseph's, Tufts, Seton Hall, the University of California-Irvine, the University of Cincinnati and Rutgers.
In all, Baker boasts 35 years of coaching experience, highlighted by a seven-year stint (2005-2011) as the head coach of the Rochester Razorsharks (ABA/PBL). During his time with the Razorsharks, Baker earned three Coach of the Year awards and guided the franchise to three league championships.
"We had a long list of worthy candidates interested in coaching the Sevens and are thrilled to have a coach as experienced and successful as Rod join our organization," said 87ers General Manager Brandon D. Williams in the team's official press release. "Rod is a proven winner and is well-versed in developing young players both on and off the court."
Delaware will kick off its inaugural season November 23 on the road against the Canton Charge. This Saturday, the Sevens will hold an open practice at Delaware Technical Community College's Stanton Campus Gymnasium from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.