We are hearing rumors that Coach VandeGarde is being considered for the Illinois State Head Coaching position.
You guys know him as Coach Mike who helps out in some of the clinics we do. He is also a lead instructor for Austin Basketball Camps. Here are a few more details on his bio:
Mike Vandegarde of the Philadelphia 76ers. He was a Redbird player that graduated as a Academic All-American in 1994 from ISU. I know he was a huge fan favorite back in the day and left ISU as the all-time shot blocker. His resume includes:
- 1990-93 playing for Bob Bender (Duke system)
- 1993-94 playing for Kevin Stallings (North Carolina system)
- 1994 playing professionally in South America
- 1995 playing professionally in Europe
- 1996-97 Southeastern Junior College Asst Coach (I think they won a national championship with some of the kids he recruited a few years later)
- 1997-2000 Southwest Texas Asst Coach (they won 2 conference championships and he helped develop center Jeff Foster as a NBA player)
- 1997-2000 Rommates with Mario Moccia (AD at Southern Illinois who has befriended Gary in the short time they have both been in the Valley)
- 2000-Present worked with the 76ers under head coaches:
Larry Brown (4 years-North Carolina system again)
Eddie Jordan (1 year-Princeton system)
Jim O’Brien (1 year-Rick Pitino and Louisville system)
Doug Collins (2 years-Most influencial basketball person at ISU)
I am not sure any candidate can bring that type of first hand knowledge of the game to the table that has any stronger ISU ties then being a player and Academic All-American.
I also know that he has a great relationship with Larry Lyons and had a sit down meeting with Gary this last year to discuss everything ISU basketball. I absolutely know his name will be discussed for the position. Let’s hope ISU sees the value.
Chris Corbett
Director
Austin Youth Basketball
512-921-4444
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