Newman joins hoops coaching staff at Co-Lin Wesson

Special to Wesson News

Sam Newman begins his first year as assistant coach, joining head coach Randy Bolden for his first year leading the Wolves program.

The Minnesota native comes to Co-Lin after spending nearly four years as assistant coach at Mississippi College. During his time at Mississippi College, Newman helped to lead the team to back-to-back GSC Tournament appearances in the 2023 and 2024 seasons -- first trips to the tournament since the 1996 season.

Newman helped in the recruitment and development of Galen Smith and Rashad Bolden at MC, who both attained All-GSC honors during their time with the Choctaws.

"I am excited for coach Sam Newman to join our staff this year," said Co-Lin head coach Randy Bolden. "Sam has been with me for the past four years at Mississippi College and his dedication and basketball knowledge along with his ability to connect with players has been invaluable."

Prior to his time at MC, Newman spent two seasons at Florida State University as a graduate assistant working under Hall of Fame head coach Leonard Hamilton. During his time at FSU, Newman was part of a staff that earned an ACC Regular Season Championship in the 2019-20 season and then reached the Sweet Sixteen in Indianapolis in the 2020-21 season. His primary responsibilities with the Seminoles focused on on-court player development and developing scouting reports on opponents. While part of the staff Newman helped with the development of seven NBA draft picks including Patrick Williams, Devin Vassell, Trent Forest, Raiquan Gray, Balsa Koprivica, MJ Walker, and Scottie Barnes.

"Throughout our time together, Sam has consistently demonstrated a passion for teaching the game and a commitment to player development," said Bolden. "His relentless work ethic and tireless effort in recruiting, scouting, and game preparation has made a significant impact on every team we've been a part of."

Before joining the staff at Florida State, Newman spent two seasons as an assistant boys basketball coach at Mahtomedi High School in Minnesota

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Newman graduated from Bethel University with a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing in 2019 and received a Master of Science in Sports Management from Florida State in 2021.

"Sam's ability to build strong relationships with our players and foster a positive team culture is one of his greatest strengths,” says Bolden.  “He has an incredible talent for helping players grow both on and off the court and I'm confident he will be instrumental in helping us build a competitive and cohesive team here at Co-Lin.  I'm grateful to have Sam on staff again and look forward to working with him as we pursue excellence in all areas of our program."