Every year many new faces appear on the basketball court -- and it's not just players. New coaches are often welcomed to the staff to provide assistance to the program.
Both the men's and women's programs have made changes to its staff during the offseason. Jamal Walker is the new assistant coach for the men's team while Jeanette Gray and Heather Cusick will help guide the women's program.
Walker's previous coaching position was at Redlands Community College in El Reno, Okla, where he spent the last two seasons as an assistant.
Walker said his former coach at Redlands, Steve Eck, and current coach, Tim Buckley, have taught him many things.
"The experience being around two great coaches has really prepared me," Walker said.
A graduate of Saint Louis in 2000, Walker was a three-year starter and four-year letterwinner for the Billikens from 1995-1999. His playing experience helps make the coaching aspect easier.
"I try to teach the guys the little things," Walker said. "I try to talk to the guys one-on-one and tell them the things I would have liked to know when I was playing."
Walker said he doesn't have any personal expectations for this season, other than helping the team. As the start of the season looms, he feels good about everything.
"I'm really looking forward to the start of the season," he said. "I have high expectations for the team. If we come out and practice hard every day, everything else will take care of itself."
Although she isn't new to the program, Gray has a new position this season for the women's squad. A volunteer assistant last year, she was promoted to assistant coach over the summer.
"I learned a lot last year from observing," Gray said. "Last year, not being able to say anything on the court, allows you to not take it for granted."
Gray is in charge of film and helps with scouting and recruiting. A 2003 graduate of Valparaiso, Gray has spent most of her life in Indiana. Her knowledge of the state helps in the recruiting process.
"I know the schools that are traditionally pretty strong," Gray said. "It definitely helps (recruiting) if you're familiar."
Gray's experiences from last year have helped her be better prepared for this season. The main source of her learning last year came from head coach Tracy Roller.
"She was always the one to take some time and teach me the small things -- show me the ropes," Gray said. "She always pushed me, sometimes harder than I wanted to be pushed. It's definitely good the way she has taught me."
Gray said she is excited about the upcoming season and expects the team to get better every day.
"The girls are working really, really hard. I think our kids come in with one thing in mind -- to win the MAC Championship."
In newly created position, director of operations, Cusick begins her coaching career with the Ball State women's basketball team.
A 2003 graduate of Miami, Cusick brings knowledge of playing in the Mid-American Conference to the table. She is the school's all-time leader in points, field goals, 3-point field goals, assists and 20-point scoring games.
"I think (playing experience) is my biggest aspect I bring," Cusick said. "Just bringing that experience to carry over to the players and helping them out in the arena."
Cusick has variety of responsibilities with her position, including the basketball newsletter, film and recruiting.
Due to NCAA regulation Cusick is not able to coach out on the floor during the games. Regardless of this limitation, she is enjoying her new job.
"I think it's a great way to get my foot in the door," she said. "It's a learning experience in the coaching aspect. I'm learning each day. Every day is something new. It's been great."
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
