Baker named first coach of 87ers

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RodBakerTSThe Delaware 87ers announced that they have named Rod Baker the first coach in franchise history. Baker has 35 years of coaching experience and most recently served as an assistant coach for the Bakersfield Jam.

“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. “Rod is a proven winner and is well-versed in developing young players both on and off the court.”

Last season, Baker helped guide the Jam to a franchise best record of 36-14. Prior to joining the Jam, he spent seven seasons as head coach of the Rochester RazorSharks of the Premier Basketball League.

Baker won over 80 percent of his games with the RazorSharks, compiling a 147-36 mark. He led the team to four championships and was named Coach of the Year three times.

A graduate of Holy Cross, Baker has a long college coaching background. He began his career as an assistant at Columbia University and has also coached at Tufts University, Seton Hall, UC Irvine, Cincinnati and Rutgers.

The 87ers are holding a free open practice followed by a team autograph session at Delaware Tech on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 11:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m.

The team will play its games at the Carpenter Center at the University of Delaware Newark campus.