Coaching Prodigy Takes the Helm: James "JJ" Thatcher Appointed as New Head Men's Basketball Coach at Bryant & Stratton College - Rochester

James "JJ" Thatcher, a seasoned basketball coach with an impressive track record, has been named the new head men's basketball coach at Bryant & Stratton College - Rochester in New York. Thatcher's extensive experience in the USCAA league, coupled with his proven ability to build successful programs, make him an ideal fit for the role. With a deep understanding of the collegiate basketball landscape and a commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes, Thatcher is poised to lead the Bryant & Stratton College - Rochester men's basketball team to new heights.

Elevating the Game: Thatcher's Proven Expertise and Passion for Coaching

Embracing the USCAA Challenge

Thatcher is no stranger to the USCAA league, having spent time coaching in the league during his tenure in Florida. He expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "I am very excited and thankful for this opportunity Athletic Director 'Darren Wynne' has given me to lead the men's basketball program at Bryant & Stratton College-Rochester. To be able to coach and walk the sidelines at any collegiate level is a blessing." Thatcher's familiarity with the USCAA league and the teams within it will undoubtedly be an asset as he takes on this new challenge.

Building a Championship-Caliber Team

Thatcher's vision for the Bryant & Stratton College - Rochester men's basketball program is clear: to build a team that represents the college and its mission with high-character student-athletes who excel both on and off the court. He expressed his commitment to this goal, stating, "I look forward to building a team that represents the College and institution mission, with high character student – athletes within the classroom, community and on the court."

Navigating the Changing Landscape of College Sports

Thatcher acknowledges the dramatic changes that have occurred in the world of college sports and basketball, recognizing that it's essential to have a strong support system on the sidelines. He said, "The landscape of college sports and basketball has changed dramatically, you learn fast who is there by your side along with you on the sideline." Thatcher's experience and adaptability will be crucial in navigating these evolving challenges and positioning the Bryant & Stratton College - Rochester men's basketball team for success.

Investing in the Future

Bryant & Stratton College - Rochester has demonstrated its commitment to the men's basketball program by investing in Thatcher to lead the team. Thatcher expressed his gratitude for this opportunity, stating, "Bryant & Stratton College – Rochester has invested in me to lead their men's basketball team to a National Title." This investment in Thatcher's leadership and expertise is a testament to the college's dedication to building a championship-caliber program.

Cultivating a Winning Pedigree

Prior to his appointment at Bryant & Stratton College - Rochester, Thatcher was instrumental in building the program and organization at Prestige Worldwide Sports Academy, where he worked alongside CEO/President Ken Wilcox. Thatcher helped transform the academy into one of the best post-graduate institutions in the state of Florida, setting high academic standards and creating opportunities for student-athletes to secure college scholarships.

Navigating Challenges and Building Relationships

Thatcher's coaching experience includes a brief stint as the head men's basketball coach at Grays Harbor College in Aberdeen, Washington, where he was able to build relationships within the NWAC league. Although the season was cut short due to financial struggles at the college, Thatcher's ability to adapt and forge connections in a new environment demonstrates his resilience and versatility as a coach.

Elevating Programs to New Heights

Thatcher's most recent coaching role was at Florida National University (FNU), an NAIA institution in Hialeah, Florida. During his eight-season tenure, Thatcher transformed FNU into one of the top NAIA programs in the state and across the country. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Thatcher's teams continued to excel, with the 2019-2020 squad earning a #1 seed in the USCAA National Tournament and producing three USCAA All-Americans.

Recruiting and Developing Talent

Thatcher's ability to identify and develop talented student-athletes has been a hallmark of his coaching career. At FNU, he recruited and coached standout players like Kenneth Santos, Jeffrey Hernandez, and Jose Benitez, who all hailed from the renowned Miami Tropics AAU program. Thatcher's keen eye for talent and his commitment to player development have been instrumental in building successful programs.

Establishing a Winning Culture

Thatcher's coaching prowess has been evident in the consistent success of his teams. During his tenure at FNU, he led the Conquistadors to multiple 20-win seasons, including a 25-7 record in the 2017-2018 campaign, which marked the program's best season in its short history. Thatcher's teams have also made deep runs in the USCAA National Tournament, including a Final Four appearance in 2018-2019.

Embracing Competitive Challenges

Thatcher's coaching career has included opportunities to test his teams against elite competition. During his time at FNU, the Conquistadors had the privilege of playing exhibition games against the Women's Team USA, which went on to win the Olympic gold medal, as well as the Bahamas Senior National Team, which featured NBA players like DeAndre Ayton, Buddy Hill, and Lourawls "Tum Tum" Nairn Jr. These experiences have undoubtedly prepared Thatcher and his teams to compete at the highest levels of collegiate basketball.

Diverse Coaching Experience

Thatcher's coaching journey has spanned various levels of the game, from junior college to NAIA and USCAA programs. Prior to his success at FNU, he spent a season as the head women's basketball coach at Trinity Baptist College, where he recruited the best player in the school's history, Nicole Collins, who went on to become an NCCAA All-American. Thatcher's diverse coaching experience has equipped him with a well-rounded understanding of the game and the ability to adapt to different team dynamics and player needs.

Mentorship and Relationships

Thatcher credits a network of influential individuals who have played pivotal roles in his coaching journey. From the Bollinger family, who adopted him at a young age, to mentors like Bobby Kennen, Ken Wilcox, Tae Norwood, and Jerry Sokol, Thatcher has been shaped by the guidance and support of these individuals. Additionally, his relationships with coaches like Art Pilin Alvarez have been instrumental in his success, as they have helped him connect with talented players and build strong teams.

Grassroots Involvement and Player Development

Thatcher's commitment to the game extends beyond the collegiate level, as he has been actively involved in the AAU circuit. He founded the Florida Hoopsters AAU program, which has helped numerous young men and women secure college opportunities. Thatcher's dedication to player development and his ability to identify and nurture talent have been crucial in his success as a coach.

Diverse Educational Background

Thatcher's educational background reflects his well-rounded approach to coaching. He holds degrees in Education and Business Administration, as well as an MBA in Business Administration. This diverse educational foundation has undoubtedly contributed to his ability to lead and manage successful basketball programs.