One of the most exciting offensive players to come out of Philadelphia in the past decade, Jarrod “G” Denard (pictured below), has been hired as an Assistant Basketball Coach at West Catholic Prep.

Second year Head Coach, Jasson Hasson (pictured below), indicated that he was looking for someone loyal with a keen understanding of basketball and a commitment to helping young people get better on and off the court. Denard, the Associated Press, Class A Pennsylvania Player of the Year in 2008 fill those needs. An All-State, All-City and All-Public performer as a senior at Friere Charter School, Denard led his squad to the State Championship game and is generally considered the school’s greatest player.

An unquestioned Division 1 talent, Denard was unable to meet NCAA freshman eligibility requirements. As a result, he played for Matt Furjanic at Polk State JUCO in Florida, before completing his collegiate playing career at Claflin University in South Carolina. Denard is an excellent example of perseverance and commitment. Many thought he would be unable to successfully navigate rigorous college course loads. Denard proved them wrong!

Bruiser Flint (former Drexel Head Coach) and Geoff Arnold (St. Joseph’s Assistant Coach) served as references for Denard. “I’m happy that Jarrod gets an opportunity to begin his career as a paid assistant in the Philadelphia Catholic League,” said Arnold. “There are some really good coaches in the Catholic League, I think Jarrod will help West Catholic compete over the next couple of years.”

Black Cager Sports Media thanks Coach Hasson and West Catholic Prep for giving Denard an opportunity to coach.

Coach Hasson and West Catholic GET IT! Thanks for giving the young man from North Philly a chance to coach!!

We look forward to covering the Burrs and the Catholic League hoops next year.