ALL-EAST TEXAS BOYS BASKETBALL COACH OF THE YEAR:
Brian Malone
Longview News Journal
FROM STAFF REPORTS
Sunday, March 16, 2008

BRIAN MALONE

TEAM: Jefferson High School

RECORD: 31-3 (advanced to the regional finals and lost to Arp)

Q&A

When did you know your team had the potential to reach the regional tournament?

I knew last season that I would have a lot of talent coming back. One of the goals the team set from the beginning of the season was to play in the regional tournament. We stayed focused and played hard to make sure that goal became a reality.

What is the best part about being a coach?

Building relationships with students that go beyond the basketball court. When you spend so much time with players, you become a family. Also, having fun. I tell my players if they aren't having fun, then I'm not having fun. I have been very fortunate to have some fun seasons.

What is the worst part about being a coach?

Time away from family

Who had the biggest influence on your decision to become a coach?

Basketball has always played a big role in my life. My dad was a referee for the NCAA, so I grew up in that atmosphere. Two things I really enjoy are basketball and working with kids, so I have always thought of coaching as a win-win occupation for me.

Did you know?

Jefferson won its first playoff game this season since as far back as UIL records are kept ... Malone's sister, Tina Malone, played at Kilgore College and played for a national championship team at Louisiana Tech in 1994 ... Malone played at Panola College from 1992-94, and once hit eight 3-pointers in a game for the Ponies.

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http://www.news-journal.com/search/content/sports/stories/03162008_ALLET_coach_.html