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A head coach transition at Howard University in Washington D.C. has

landed James Willhelmi on the court of Flowers Hall. Replacing Cord

Wright, Willhelmi is the new assistant men’s basketball coach for

the University of North Alabama.

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Willhelmi graduated from Lafollette High School in Madison, Wis.

where he played both football and basketball. He played four years

as forward for his team, increasing the passion he had for the

game.

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Becoming a basketball coach was a dream that was heavily influenced

by John Thompson, head coach of Georgetown University. “I liked the

impact he had on his players on and off the court,” Willhelmi said

of Thompson.

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Even though he didn’t play basketball in college, he believed “if

you have a dream and work hard you can achieve it,” and pursued a

degree in physical education.

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The decision to coach basketball was easy for Willhelmi to make.

“Basketball has the greatest athletes in the world,” he jokingly

announced. On a serious note, he views the sport as the best

combination of speed, strength, quickness and hand-eye

coordination. 

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Having the opportunity to watch the players grow as men is one of

his favorite aspects of coaching. Hearing from players he taught 10

years ago and learning where they are today has shown the impact he

has made on his students, while creating an extended family

tree.

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Since arriving at UNA, Willhelmi has thoroughly enjoyed his time.

“It’s cool to be in a championship environment,” he

explained.

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His goal for the team is to improve each day and to do things in a

quality manner. “By doing things in a quality manner, the wins will

take care of themselves.”

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Along with working with a new team, he had to adjust to the

fast-style game that Head Coach Bobby Champagne has created.

“[Champagne] is a high-energy coach. It’s been fun learning a new

approach,” Willhelmi stated of his current experience.

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As assistant coach, his primary focus is recruiting. He is

responsible for finding potential opponents while scouting out

freshman and transfer players for the Lions.

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Aside from recruiting and “talking hoops,” Willhelmi enjoys

watching movies and football in his leisure time. Staying true to

his state, he faithfully supports the Wisconsin

Badgers. 

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When the men tipped off the past week, it marked the assistant

coach’s official recognition of coaching at every level of NCAA.

Gaining perspective from different standpoints has made an impact

on Willhelmi, allowing him to learn from each

experience.

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“I’m one of those rare people that get to do their hobby for a

living,” Willhelmi said. He loves coaching at the collegiate level

and has continued to follow the dream he established years

ago. 

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“Everyone’s goal is to be in a position to win. We have a great

chance here. I want to help add to the legacy of UNA basketball,”

Wilhelmi said.

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