New director adds to men’s basketball team’s makeover

New  director of men's basketball operations Jay Morris wants one thing to be known: He's not "a savior."

Morris handles the day-to-day planning for Long Beach State and basically any other loose ends that need to be tied up in order for the team to have a smooth-running environment.

"I feel I fit into the mold of everybody here, so I can help build what they have started," Morris said. "Hopefully my actions will help us improve." 

One of the more valuable assets on the team, Morris' title also carries duties such as coordinating team travel (i.e. buses, air travel), meals when the team is on the road, scheduling practice time and location, running summer basketball camps and other various tasks.

He is often directly involved with the coaching staff, players and other members of the men's basketball team.  He is part of the continual growth of the camaraderie that may help bring the men's team at LBSU back to prominence.

The selection of the candidate was an important duty as well.  Dan Monson, head coach of the 49ers, is one of the people who had a major role in hiring Morris.  He had particular characteristics in mind when he was searching for the right candidate.

"I feel that it is important for us to have people on our staff that are from the area and connected to high school basketball in Southern California, as this is our recruiting priority," Monson said.  "Jay being an alumnus and working at Westchester High School, one of the premier high schools in L.A., made him a perfect candidate." 

Morris has been learning on the job since he was hired March 5.  However, there is one thing that he does not need to learn, and that is passion.

"Basketball has always been my first love," Morris said.  "I knew whatever I wanted to do, it had to be involved in sports.  You've got to love what you do."

In his first position as director of basketball operations, he thinks that it is important to examine things thoroughly.

"I'm the youngest of the coaching staff, all the coaches feel like big brothers," Morris said. "They are teaching me the tricks of the trade.  I'm not going to pick it up overnight, but I'm a quick learner. I'll be able to handle [the responsibility]." 

A bonus of his new job will allow Morris the opportunity to be mentored by his new "big brothers" and "family," as one day he may be able to fulfill his ultimate goal of becoming a coach.

"The family atmosphere really drew me here," Morris said. "The whole university feels like a family. Also, I want to eventually get into coaching. I did the research and it is a hard profession to get into.  This is a good way to get your foot in the door."