Greg Jockims is stepping down as G-M and head coach of the Saskatchewan Rattlers.
The long-time former head coach of the U of S Huskies men’s program led the Rattlers to the first-ever Canadian Elite Basketball League championship back in August. Jockims is leaving the dual role to focus on his family and his business, but will remain with the Snakes as a basketball advisor. Jockims will be honoured for his guiding the first-year Rattlers to the first-ever C-E-B-L title during a home game in the 2020 season. Following is the news release from the Saskatchewan Rattlers…
Rattlers Announce New Role for Greg Jockims Former General Manager and Head Coach to assume advisor role with the Club as Rattlers begin global search for new leadership
SASKATOON, November 5, 2019 – The Saskatchewan Rattlers, member club of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), announced Tuesday that Greg Jockims will be stepping down as general manager and head coach to assume the role of basketball advisor within the organization. After leading the Rattlers to the inaugural CEBL Championship, Jockims is stepping away from full-time duties to focus on his family and business. The Rattlers will honour Jockims at an upcoming game this season in recognition of his efforts in establishing basketball success in Saskatchewan. “We thank Greg for his contributions to the Rattlers during its inaugural season,” said Saskatchewan President and Chief Operating Officer Lee Genier. “Along with his coaching staff, Greg built a Championship club in its first year and took the Rattlers to the pinnacle of the CEBL. Winning the inaugural championship is no small feat and we thank Greg for guiding us throughout the season. Although we are losing a great coach, we look forward to success through Greg’s new role and the next chapter in Rattlers history. With a new coach, we have every reason to be optimistic for the 2020 season.” Jockims joined the Rattlers after coaching the University of Saskatchewan Huskies men’s basketball team from 1998 to 2011. He helped rebuild the Huskies and coached them to seven straight playoff appearances, which included Central Division regular season titles in 2005 and 2006, as well as a Central Division Championship in 2006 and a Canada West Championship and a CIS National Championship in 2010. “It was an extremely difficult decision to make, however I want to be able to spend more time with my family and focus on my teaching career in addition to new business endeavours, said Jockims. “I have nothing but positive things to say about the Rattlers organization and the CEBL. I look forward to seeing what the team can do in their second season. I am keen to continue to assist the organization in any way that I can.” The Rattlers have launched a global search for new basketball leadership. An announcement is expected to be made in the near future.
