MURFREESBORO – CU Head Men's Basketball Coach Dan DeRose has solidified his coaching staff with the addition of former University of North Carolina and NBA star J.R. Reid. This is Reid's first collegiate coaching stint following a prolific playing career. He will work primarily with the Hawks' post players.

 

Highly touted out of nearby Kempsville High School, Reid went on to star at the University of North Carolina, under then head coach Dean Smith. In his three seasons in Chapel Hill, Reid averaged 16.2 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. He shot 60.1% from the floor and 66.8% from the free throw line, leading him to be named a two-time All-ACC performer and two-time All-American. Reid was also named ACC Rookie of the Year after his first season.

 

After three seasons with the Tar Heels, Reid was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the #5 overall draft pick in the 1989 NBA Draft. Following his first season in Charlotte in which he averaged 11.1 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, Reid was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team.

 

Reid played for seven teams during his 11 year NBA career, scoring 5,680 points and pulling down 3,381 rebounds.

 

“Having his presence here and the skill set he brings to table is great. Most kids at this level can't get that type of instruction,” commented DeRose. “What I am really looking for out of him is the maturity aspect he can bring. J.R. knows what it takes to be the #1 high school player in the country, to go play at UNC, and to be a professional athlete. He can share the mentality with these guys on how hard you have to work in order to excel at the highest level.”