Earlier this season, Jamal Crawford returned to his former team, the Knicks, in a broadcasting capacity. In November, he subbed in for Clyde Frazier as a game analyst on MSG Network for 10 games. This was after the 20-year-old confined his free agency in his broadcasting career. The 3x NBA Sixth Man of the Year has secured a new deal for next season with NBC. However, that’s for next season, as J-Crossver finished this season with a trophy.
“I ain’t hold this thing in 27 years.” This was the reaction from the 44-year-old as he helped his alma matter win the state championship game. Jamal Crawford played his high school basketball for Mike Bethea at Rainier Beach and led them to a 1998 state title. After 27 years, he was back, this time as an assistant for Bethea, and won the championship in his first season. To celebrate it, the former NBA star shared behind-the-scenes moments after the victory.
The team dominated the entire tournament, winning its three games by an average margin of 19 points. For the Washington native, it was a proud moment, as the high school built his foundation for success. Later, he would play college basketball at Michigan and become the eighth overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft. The former point guard also became emotional while speaking about his achievement as an assistant coach.
“Who knew I’d be coaching? That was never in the plans. It’s surreal. It’s so much more than what’s on the court. The kids attack every day. It means so much. It’s so much more than basketball. You’re part of those kids’ lives. The good days, the bad days, the days they need a hug, the days they need a shoulder to cry on.” Jamal Crawford continued, “It’s so much deeper. It’s just surreal. My first year playing high school basketball, I won it with coach Mike. My first year as a coach, I won it.”
Despite scripting a win, Jamal Crawford is not interested in a full-time coaching role
The final was between the top-seeded Rainier Beach Vikings and the No. 5 seed Edmonds-Woodway. The former won their 10th state championship in school history in a 68-48 win. It was the same hurdle where the Vikings came short last season, as they lost to Eastside Catholic. But earlier this season, they won the game as well, thanks to J-Crossver being the coach of the team.
June 25, 2018; Santa Monica, CA, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jamal Crawford poses for photos with his teammate of the year award during the NBA Award Show at Barker Hanger. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Yes, Jamal Crawford took the reigns of the team, but only for one night. Since longtime coach Mike Bethea missed the game due to illness. But in his absence, the team had a 99-72 victory. When asked about the potential for a full-time coaching role, Crawford denied it. Jeremiah Regional, who is a Basketball Scout as per his Instagram bio, added a story, “Coach Crawford has a nice ring to it.” The NBA icon was happy about the honor but denied doing it in a full-time capacity.
“Only one Coach Mike, but that was fun!” He definitely enjoyed his time back on the hardwood. The potential reason for him declining the role could be because of NBC. “We’re excited to welcome Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover ) to NBC Sports!” The network added a post on X.
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