CHASING THE DREAM IN UTAH
Utah Flash Hold Free Agent Tryouts Sept. 29 at Open Court in Lehi
PROVO, Utah, Sept. 20, 2007 – Every basketball player with visions of playing in the NBA has the opportunity to take advantage of a tremendous opportunity to take the next step in realizing that dream on Saturday, Sept. 29 at Open Court in Lehi, Utah.
The Utah Flash, the NBA Development league team based in Orem and directly affiliated with the Utah Jazz and Boston Celtics, is conducting an open tryout beginning at noon MT with the guarantee of at least one player, and maybe more, emerging from the on-court audition with an invitation to earn a roster spot for Flash training camp which begins Nov. 9.
In addition to the Flash basketball operations and coaching staff, former Utah Jazz star Thurl Bailey and other members of the Jazz basketball operations staff are expected to be present at the workouts.
"Probably the greatest thing about the D-League is it provides opportunity," Flash general manager David Fredman said. "Opportunity coupled with hard work has earned nearly 100 players call-ups to NBA teams since the league began in 2001-02.
"While NBADL players are arguably the best players in the world not on an NBA roster, there have been, and will continue to be, those diamonds in the rough, that untapped talent, that can only be found in a setting like this," Fredman said. "If I've learned one thing in all my years in professional basketball, it's that you never pass on an opportunity to see someone play and evaluate their capabilities."
Players should arrive at Open Court, 11541 North Frontage Road in Lehi (I-15 Exit 284) by noon MT. Workouts over four courts begin at 12:30 p.m. and run throughout the afternoon. Players will compete in drills to test their skills and conditioning prior to dividing into teams for several games.
"We have a day of high-intensity, highly structured workouts scheduled across four basketball floors in a great facility," Flash head coach Brad Jones said. "Every player will leave Open Court knowing they got a great look and a full opportunity to pursue their hoop dreams."
With league approval, at least one player from the open tryout will be selected for an opportunity to make the Flash roster. Fredman and Jones will bring 17 players to camp as preparations continue for the Flash's inaugural season.
Players interested in tryouts need to complete a registration form, player disclosure form and player release and eligibility form. Each player should arrive ready to remit a cashier's check for $150 made payable to G Code Hoops. Forms are available online at utahflash.com or can be picked up at the Utah Flash front office at 5017 N Edgewood in Provo. Players will be provided jerseys for the workout and will be allowed to keep them following the tryout.
Players needing overnight accommodations should contact Devin Slorah at the Hampton Inn in Lehi to receive a special Flash rate of $79.99. The Hampton Inn is two miles from Open Court.
PLAYER CONTACT: Kevin Young / 678-754-6191 or 801-434- 4667 / kevin@utahflash.com
MEDIA CONTACT: Kent Partridge / 801-310-8412 / kent@utahflash.com
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Who Is Brian Jackson?
Who Is Brian Jackson?
Editor’s Note: Flash communications and marketing intern extraordinaire Ashley Dawson recently caught up with Brian Jackson, the Utah Flash’s first-round selection in the recent NBA Development League Expansion Draft.
-Brian Jackson is a laid back guy from Oregon who drives a Ford F-150 pickup truck, likes to hunt and dreams of playing in the NBA.
-Brian Jackson was a Chicago Bulls fan while growing up.
-Brian Jackson loves football and says Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre is his inspiration. “I just love the way he plays and his attitude.”
-Brian Jackson considers being a part of back-to-back state basketball championships in high school one of his greatest achievements.
-Brian Jackson played his college basketball at Oregon State and has spent the last two years in the NBA D-League with the Arkansas RimRockers.
Editor’s Note: Flash communications and marketing intern extraordinaire Ashley Dawson recently caught up with Brian Jackson, the Utah Flash’s first-round selection in the recent NBA Development League Expansion Draft.
-Brian Jackson is a laid back guy from Oregon who drives a Ford F-150 pickup truck, likes to hunt and dreams of playing in the NBA.
-Brian Jackson was a Chicago Bulls fan while growing up.
-Brian Jackson loves football and says Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre is his inspiration. “I just love the way he plays and his attitude.”
-Brian Jackson considers being a part of back-to-back state basketball championships in high school one of his greatest achievements.
-Brian Jackson played his college basketball at Oregon State and has spent the last two years in the NBA D-League with the Arkansas RimRockers.
Chris Covatta/NBAE/Getty Images
Following is the transcript from that conversation between Jackson and Dawson.
AD: Are you looking forward to playing with the Flash and are you excited about being affiliated with the Utah Jazz and Boston Celtics?
BJ: “I played in the league last year and having the Lakers involved was a really good thing. But I think that having the Jazz so close will be beneficial because somebody will be watching you all the time and you will get noticed. You don’t want to get stuck somewhere to far out of the way.”
AD: What do you personally want to improve on this year?
BJ: “Outside shooting and rebounding, but the goal is to get to the NBA, so whatever they think I need to work on to make me a better player.”
AD: The book on you is also that you are a fearless defender and don’t mind going weak side to take a charge? Would you agree with that? If so, what do you attribute that to?
BJ: “Oh yes, I agree with that. The way I look at it is you never know how long you will be playing. So you might as well sacrifice your body and take it seriously, because you could have it much worse. You could be over in Iraq getting shot at.”
AD: Having played your college basketball at Oregon State, what would it mean to be back out West playing again?
BJ: “It will be much better. I like it out west. It’s a lot closer to home and more of what I am used to. I’m not really a big fan of some other places that I’ve had to play the past couple years. I am looking forward to the new scenery.”
AD: If it worked out that they both signed with the league, what would it be like to play with Roger Powell and James Lang again?
BJ: “It would be great and fun. I’ve known Roger since last year and James for a couple years now and he is a funny guy. It would be great to play together again.”
AD: How do you prepare for a game?
BJ: “I usually eat chicken, fish, or pasta. Then I take a nap and shower, leave for the game and then shoot around.”
AD: What is your least favorite exercise?
BJ: “Running lines. I hate running lines.”
AD: What is your most treasured possession?
BJ: “My family.”
AD: How many brothers/sisters do you have?
BJ: “I have 2 younger sisters.”
AD: Are you married? Single? Kids?
BJ: “Single.”
AD: What makes you mad?
BJ: “People who cut me off on the road. That is one of my biggest pet peeves.”
AD: What makes you happy?
BJ: “When things go good in life.”
AD: If you were a crayon what color would you be?
BJ: “Blue, because it’s my favorite color.”
AD: What is your motto?
BJ: “You can’t have too much fun…I just like to be happy and have fun!”
Sunday, September 9, 2007
FLASH TAKE RIGHTS TO BRIAN JACKSON WITH TOP PICK IN EXPANSION DRAFT
FLASH TAKE RIGHTS TO BRIAN JACKSON WITH TOP PICK IN EXPANSION DRAFT
Former Washington Wizard James Lang, Utah Jazz Forward Roger Powell Taken Second and Third
PROVO, Utah, Sept. 5, 2007 – The expansion Utah Flash drafted the rights to former Oregon State forward Brian Jackson with its first round selection (3rd overall) in the 2007 NBA Development League Expansion Draft.
The 6-9, 245-pound Jackson played last season with the Arkansas RimRockers. The rights to former Washington Wizards center James Lang (6-10, 285) and former Utah Jazz forward Roger Powell (6-6, 220) were taken in the second and third rounds, respectively, by the Flash.
Jackson averaged 28.1 minutes, 11.5 points and 5.3 rebounds in 42 games (38 starts) with the RimRockers last season. Lang, a second-round 2003 NBA Draft selection by the New Orleans Hornets out of Central Park Christian High School in Birmingham Ala., also spent time with the RimRockers last season, averaging 18.1 minutes, 7.7 points and 4.6 rebounds over seven games. He played in 11 games for the Wizards last season.
Powell, who played with the Jazz before being waived on Jan. 5, 2007, averaged a D-League best 22.3 points per game in 28 games with Arkansas and was named by D-League head coaches as the recipient of the 2006-07 Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award, which honors a player who best represents the ideals of character and conduct on the court.
“From a basketball standpoint we are happy with the shooting and size we were able to draft,” said Flash general manager David Fredman. “We were able to establish an inside-outside presence.”
Each team that participated in the Expansion Draft will submit a preference list of its selected players to the D-League Office. Players from each teams list will have the opportunity to sign a league contract and play for that team next season.
Following are the round-by-round selections for the Flash in the 2007 NBA D-League Expansion Draft:
Pick Player Pos Ht Wt College
1 3 Brian Jackson F 6-9 245 Oregon State
2 6 James Lang C 6-10 285 Central Park Christian HS
3 11 Roger Powell F 6-6 220 Illinois
4 14 Curtis Stinson G 6-3 215 Iowa State
5 19 Kevin Burleson G 6-3 205 Minnesota
6 22 Chris Copeland F 6-8 235 Colorado
7 27 Corey Santee G 6-2 190 TCU
8 30 Cezary Trybanski C 7-2 235 Poland
9 35 Butter Johnson F 6-8 215 Charlotte
10 38 Jeff Hagen C 7-0 270 Minnesota
Former Washington Wizard James Lang, Utah Jazz Forward Roger Powell Taken Second and Third
PROVO, Utah, Sept. 5, 2007 – The expansion Utah Flash drafted the rights to former Oregon State forward Brian Jackson with its first round selection (3rd overall) in the 2007 NBA Development League Expansion Draft.
The 6-9, 245-pound Jackson played last season with the Arkansas RimRockers. The rights to former Washington Wizards center James Lang (6-10, 285) and former Utah Jazz forward Roger Powell (6-6, 220) were taken in the second and third rounds, respectively, by the Flash.
Jackson averaged 28.1 minutes, 11.5 points and 5.3 rebounds in 42 games (38 starts) with the RimRockers last season. Lang, a second-round 2003 NBA Draft selection by the New Orleans Hornets out of Central Park Christian High School in Birmingham Ala., also spent time with the RimRockers last season, averaging 18.1 minutes, 7.7 points and 4.6 rebounds over seven games. He played in 11 games for the Wizards last season.
Powell, who played with the Jazz before being waived on Jan. 5, 2007, averaged a D-League best 22.3 points per game in 28 games with Arkansas and was named by D-League head coaches as the recipient of the 2006-07 Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award, which honors a player who best represents the ideals of character and conduct on the court.
“From a basketball standpoint we are happy with the shooting and size we were able to draft,” said Flash general manager David Fredman. “We were able to establish an inside-outside presence.”
Each team that participated in the Expansion Draft will submit a preference list of its selected players to the D-League Office. Players from each teams list will have the opportunity to sign a league contract and play for that team next season.
Following are the round-by-round selections for the Flash in the 2007 NBA D-League Expansion Draft:
Pick Player Pos Ht Wt College
1 3 Brian Jackson F 6-9 245 Oregon State
2 6 James Lang C 6-10 285 Central Park Christian HS
3 11 Roger Powell F 6-6 220 Illinois
4 14 Curtis Stinson G 6-3 215 Iowa State
5 19 Kevin Burleson G 6-3 205 Minnesota
6 22 Chris Copeland F 6-8 235 Colorado
7 27 Corey Santee G 6-2 190 TCU
8 30 Cezary Trybanski C 7-2 235 Poland
9 35 Butter Johnson F 6-8 215 Charlotte
10 38 Jeff Hagen C 7-0 270 Minnesota
Utah Flash to Hold Local Player Tryouts
Utah Flash to Hold Local Player Tryouts
Tryout Dates Set for Sept. 29 at the Open Court in Lehi
PROVO, Utah, Sept. 4, 2007 – In an effort to find that diamond in the rough and determined to leave no stone unturned, Utah Flash general manager David Fredman and head coach Brad Jones have scheduled an open player tryout for Sept. 29 at Open Court in Lehi.
Players should arrive at Open Court, 11541 North Frontage Road in Lehi (I-15 Exit 284) by noon MT. Workouts over four courts begin at 12:30 p.m. and run through the afternoon. Players will be put through drills to test their skills and conditioning prior to dividing into teams for several games.
“If I’ve learned one thing in all my years in professional basketball, it’s that you never pass on an opportunity to see someone play and evaluate their capabilities,” Fredman said. “We do our best to see as many players as possible and this tryout is another vehicle to help us evaluate even more players.”
With NBA Development League approval, at least one player from the open tryout can be selected for an opportunity to make the Flash roster by participating in the team’s training camp in early November. Fredman and Jones will bring 17 players to camp as preparations continue for the Flash’s inaugural season.
Players interested in tryouts need to complete a registration form, player disclosure form and player release and eligibility form. Each player should be ready to remit a cashier’s check for $150 made payable to G Code Hoops prior to taking the court on the day of the tryout. Forms are available online at utahflash.com.
For additional information or to register on line go to utahflash.com or call Kevin Young at 801-434-4667.
http://www.nba.com/dleague/utah/Open_Tryouts_070906.html
Tryout Dates Set for Sept. 29 at the Open Court in Lehi
PROVO, Utah, Sept. 4, 2007 – In an effort to find that diamond in the rough and determined to leave no stone unturned, Utah Flash general manager David Fredman and head coach Brad Jones have scheduled an open player tryout for Sept. 29 at Open Court in Lehi.
Players should arrive at Open Court, 11541 North Frontage Road in Lehi (I-15 Exit 284) by noon MT. Workouts over four courts begin at 12:30 p.m. and run through the afternoon. Players will be put through drills to test their skills and conditioning prior to dividing into teams for several games.
“If I’ve learned one thing in all my years in professional basketball, it’s that you never pass on an opportunity to see someone play and evaluate their capabilities,” Fredman said. “We do our best to see as many players as possible and this tryout is another vehicle to help us evaluate even more players.”
With NBA Development League approval, at least one player from the open tryout can be selected for an opportunity to make the Flash roster by participating in the team’s training camp in early November. Fredman and Jones will bring 17 players to camp as preparations continue for the Flash’s inaugural season.
Players interested in tryouts need to complete a registration form, player disclosure form and player release and eligibility form. Each player should be ready to remit a cashier’s check for $150 made payable to G Code Hoops prior to taking the court on the day of the tryout. Forms are available online at utahflash.com.
For additional information or to register on line go to utahflash.com or call Kevin Young at 801-434-4667.
http://www.nba.com/dleague/utah/Open_Tryouts_070906.html
Utah Flash Pinnacle Dancers Hold Open Call Auditions
Utah Flash Pinnacle Dancers Hold Open Call Auditions
14 Dancers Will Be Selected for Inaugural Season
PROVO, UTAH, Aug. 29, 2007 – Auditions for the 2007-08 Utah Flash Pinnacle Dance Team will take place Saturday, Sept. 15 at the Pinnacle Security Gymnasium on Sandhill Road in Orem, according to the dance team coach and current Utah Jazz dancer Brindie McCleary.
The day will begin with a quick warm-up and technique across the floor. Cuts will take place after every two or three across-the-floor combinations based on technical ability and presence, followed by learning a dance routine. The final group will then be interviewed to select the 14 members for the 2007-08 Utah Flash Pinnacle Dance Team.
Registration starts promptly at 8 a.m. and the auditions begin at 9 a.m. Dancers are required to be 18 years of age by Sept. 15, must be a high school graduate, have an athletic physique, as well as be energetic and motivated. A non-returnable 5x7 photograph must be brought to the audition.
Dancer’s attire should include dance pants and fitted top, non-marking dance or athletic shoes, performance ready hair and make-up.
“I’m excited to be part of this organization and anticipate this upcoming season where basketball will not be the only form of entertainment.” McCleary said. “The professional dancers will be sure to add to the show. I look forward to seeing all of the dancers that come and try-out.”
The Pinnacle Dancers will perform at all of the Utah Flash home games and be required to perform at special appearances throughout the season.
Pinnacle Security Gymnasium is located at 1290 Sandhill Road, Orem, Utah. For additional information go to utahflash.com or call 801-434-HOOP.
http://www.nba.com/dleague/utah/pinnacle_dancers.html
http://www.nba.com/media/dleague/utah/Utah_Flash_Pinnacle_Dancer_Application.pdf
14 Dancers Will Be Selected for Inaugural Season
PROVO, UTAH, Aug. 29, 2007 – Auditions for the 2007-08 Utah Flash Pinnacle Dance Team will take place Saturday, Sept. 15 at the Pinnacle Security Gymnasium on Sandhill Road in Orem, according to the dance team coach and current Utah Jazz dancer Brindie McCleary.
The day will begin with a quick warm-up and technique across the floor. Cuts will take place after every two or three across-the-floor combinations based on technical ability and presence, followed by learning a dance routine. The final group will then be interviewed to select the 14 members for the 2007-08 Utah Flash Pinnacle Dance Team.
Registration starts promptly at 8 a.m. and the auditions begin at 9 a.m. Dancers are required to be 18 years of age by Sept. 15, must be a high school graduate, have an athletic physique, as well as be energetic and motivated. A non-returnable 5x7 photograph must be brought to the audition.
Dancer’s attire should include dance pants and fitted top, non-marking dance or athletic shoes, performance ready hair and make-up.
“I’m excited to be part of this organization and anticipate this upcoming season where basketball will not be the only form of entertainment.” McCleary said. “The professional dancers will be sure to add to the show. I look forward to seeing all of the dancers that come and try-out.”
The Pinnacle Dancers will perform at all of the Utah Flash home games and be required to perform at special appearances throughout the season.
Pinnacle Security Gymnasium is located at 1290 Sandhill Road, Orem, Utah. For additional information go to utahflash.com or call 801-434-HOOP.
http://www.nba.com/dleague/utah/pinnacle_dancers.html
http://www.nba.com/media/dleague/utah/Utah_Flash_Pinnacle_Dancer_Application.pdf
Team Management
Team Owner: Brandt Andersen
Team President: Joe Brown
General Manager: David Fredman
Head Coach: Brad Jones
VP of Sales and Marketing: Paul Christensen
VP of Communications: Kent Partridge
Director of Ticket Sales: Travis Quinn
Director of Marketing: Joseph Higbee
Brandt Andersen
Owner, Utah D-League
Over the past several years 29-year-old Brandt Andersen has spent his time investing and working on cutting-edge creative projects and businesses.
In 1999 while attending Brigham Young University, Andersen founded uSight, a leading provider of software products and services for small businesses. In 2004 uSight was named the 2nd fastest growing privately held company in America by INC Magazine. Andersen was the youngest CEO to make the list. In 2004 he sold a portion of the company to Kansas City based NMR Inc.
Andersen is currently the general partner and owner of two large real estate development projects. The Lakes at Sleepy Ridge, surrounds the Sleepy Ridge Golf Course, a Dye Family Course, in Orem, Utah. This residential community is one of the top golf course communities in the Western United States.
He is also the general partner and owner of a real estate project for which he has employed the services of world-renowned architect Frank Gehry of Frank O Gehry and Associates. When completed, this Gehry collaboration in Lehi, Utah promises to become an architectural icon of the Western United States and marks the first time Frank Gehry has agreed to work on a project in the State. The project will include a wakeboard lake, high-end lifestyle shopping and restaurants, as well as a five star hotel and residential community.
Andersen graduated from BYU with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications. He resides with his wife and two children in Provo, Utah. He enjoys snowboarding, wakeboarding and surfing and is an avid basketball fan. He has received multiple awards for entrepreneurship and continues to be a sought-after speaker.
Brandt's Blog
http://www.dleagueutah.blogspot.com/
Joe Brown
President, Utah D-League
In 2002 Joe Brown graduated from Brigham Young University with a B.S. in Business Management with an emphasis in Finance. His strengths are in financial analysis and operations, with experience in the management of software and land development.
In 2001 Joe began working at uSight LLC where he started off in sales. As the company continued to grow, his skills and strengths lead to several promotions. In July of 2002 Joe was promoted to Chief Operations Officer of the company. As the COO of uSight, LLC he was responsible for the development, implementation and ultimate success of the company's business plan. Joe directed the company's daily operations and executed the company's objectives. As COO of uSight Joe helped take the company from $2 million in revenue to over $30 million in revenue. In October of 2004 Inc. Magazine named uSight LLC as the 2nd fasting growing privately held company in America in their annual INC 500 edition.
His current projects included uSight, The Lakes at Sleepy Ridge, and President of the NBA Development League Utah Team.
Team President: Joe Brown
General Manager: David Fredman
Head Coach: Brad Jones
VP of Sales and Marketing: Paul Christensen
VP of Communications: Kent Partridge
Director of Ticket Sales: Travis Quinn
Director of Marketing: Joseph Higbee
Brandt Andersen
Owner, Utah D-League
Over the past several years 29-year-old Brandt Andersen has spent his time investing and working on cutting-edge creative projects and businesses.
In 1999 while attending Brigham Young University, Andersen founded uSight, a leading provider of software products and services for small businesses. In 2004 uSight was named the 2nd fastest growing privately held company in America by INC Magazine. Andersen was the youngest CEO to make the list. In 2004 he sold a portion of the company to Kansas City based NMR Inc.
Andersen is currently the general partner and owner of two large real estate development projects. The Lakes at Sleepy Ridge, surrounds the Sleepy Ridge Golf Course, a Dye Family Course, in Orem, Utah. This residential community is one of the top golf course communities in the Western United States.
He is also the general partner and owner of a real estate project for which he has employed the services of world-renowned architect Frank Gehry of Frank O Gehry and Associates. When completed, this Gehry collaboration in Lehi, Utah promises to become an architectural icon of the Western United States and marks the first time Frank Gehry has agreed to work on a project in the State. The project will include a wakeboard lake, high-end lifestyle shopping and restaurants, as well as a five star hotel and residential community.
Andersen graduated from BYU with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications. He resides with his wife and two children in Provo, Utah. He enjoys snowboarding, wakeboarding and surfing and is an avid basketball fan. He has received multiple awards for entrepreneurship and continues to be a sought-after speaker.
Brandt's Blog
http://www.dleagueutah.blogspot.com/
Joe Brown
President, Utah D-League
In 2002 Joe Brown graduated from Brigham Young University with a B.S. in Business Management with an emphasis in Finance. His strengths are in financial analysis and operations, with experience in the management of software and land development.
In 2001 Joe began working at uSight LLC where he started off in sales. As the company continued to grow, his skills and strengths lead to several promotions. In July of 2002 Joe was promoted to Chief Operations Officer of the company. As the COO of uSight, LLC he was responsible for the development, implementation and ultimate success of the company's business plan. Joe directed the company's daily operations and executed the company's objectives. As COO of uSight Joe helped take the company from $2 million in revenue to over $30 million in revenue. In October of 2004 Inc. Magazine named uSight LLC as the 2nd fasting growing privately held company in America in their annual INC 500 edition.
His current projects included uSight, The Lakes at Sleepy Ridge, and President of the NBA Development League Utah Team.
UTAH FLASH OPEN INAUGURAL SEASON NOVEMBER 24
UTAH FLASH OPEN INAUGURAL SEASON NOVEMBER 24
Home Opener November 27, 70-Percent of Home Games on Friday and Saturday
PROVO, Utah, July 24, 2007 - The expansion Utah Flash opens its inaugural NBA Development League season with a two-game road swing to Southern California on November 24 and 25 to play Anaheim and Los Angeles, respectively, before returning to the McKay Event Center in Orem for the home opener November 27 against the defending NBADL champion Dakota Wizards.
The Flash will play 70-percent of its home games on either Friday or Saturday, with three games on Monday evenings. Utah will play 13 of its first 18 games at home, including a six-game home stand in December and a five-game home stretch from late December through early January.
"The fact that we have so many weekend games is great and early-season home stretches give us an opportunity to build solid relationships," Flash head coach Brad Jones said, "so that down the stretch when we are playing for a championship the Flash will be familiar to Utah Valley basketball fans and they will come out and help us win a title in our first season."
The opener at Anaheim is the first of 50 regular season games for the Flash, 24 of which will take place at the McKay Event Center. The Flash will also take part in the 2008 D-League Showcase that will take place from January 14-17 at Qwest Arena in Boise, Idaho.
"With 17 weekend home games there is an opportunity for basketball fans all along the Wasatch Front to take in a Flash game," General Manager David Fredman said. "In addition to the best basketball being played outside the NBA, we are also planning lots of fun and affordable family promotions."
Also highlighting the 2007-08 D-League Schedule is the All-Star Game, which will be played as part of NBA Jam Session presented by adidas at 2008 NBA All-Star in New Orleans.
"The All-Star Game and the D-League Showcase have become two pillars of our league," said D-League President Dan Reed. "Both events offer our fans a chance to enjoy the outstanding brand of basketball played in the D-League, and are tremendous experiences for our players. Importantly, they are also convenient opportunities for NBA GMs and scouts to evaluate the next crop of NBA contributors."
Fans can purchase Flash season ticket packages for games at the McKay Event Center now by calling (801) 434-4667. Season tickets are available for as little as $4 per game and as much as $75 per game.
With the expansion to 14 teams, the D-League is realigning into three divisions for the 2007-08 season. The Southwest and West divisions will feature five teams while the Central division will have four. The Flash will play in the West division.
The Divisions for the 2007-08 season will break down as follows:
Central
Dakota Wizards
Fort Wayne Mad Ants
Iowa Energy
Sioux Falls Skyforce
Southwest
Albuquerque Thunderbirds
Austin Toros
Colorado 14ers
Rio Grande Valley Vipers
Tulsa 66ers
West
Anaheim Arsenal
Bakersfield Jam
Idaho Stampede
Los Angeles D-Fenders
Utah Flash
Home Opener November 27, 70-Percent of Home Games on Friday and Saturday
PROVO, Utah, July 24, 2007 - The expansion Utah Flash opens its inaugural NBA Development League season with a two-game road swing to Southern California on November 24 and 25 to play Anaheim and Los Angeles, respectively, before returning to the McKay Event Center in Orem for the home opener November 27 against the defending NBADL champion Dakota Wizards.
The Flash will play 70-percent of its home games on either Friday or Saturday, with three games on Monday evenings. Utah will play 13 of its first 18 games at home, including a six-game home stand in December and a five-game home stretch from late December through early January.
"The fact that we have so many weekend games is great and early-season home stretches give us an opportunity to build solid relationships," Flash head coach Brad Jones said, "so that down the stretch when we are playing for a championship the Flash will be familiar to Utah Valley basketball fans and they will come out and help us win a title in our first season."
The opener at Anaheim is the first of 50 regular season games for the Flash, 24 of which will take place at the McKay Event Center. The Flash will also take part in the 2008 D-League Showcase that will take place from January 14-17 at Qwest Arena in Boise, Idaho.
"With 17 weekend home games there is an opportunity for basketball fans all along the Wasatch Front to take in a Flash game," General Manager David Fredman said. "In addition to the best basketball being played outside the NBA, we are also planning lots of fun and affordable family promotions."
Also highlighting the 2007-08 D-League Schedule is the All-Star Game, which will be played as part of NBA Jam Session presented by adidas at 2008 NBA All-Star in New Orleans.
"The All-Star Game and the D-League Showcase have become two pillars of our league," said D-League President Dan Reed. "Both events offer our fans a chance to enjoy the outstanding brand of basketball played in the D-League, and are tremendous experiences for our players. Importantly, they are also convenient opportunities for NBA GMs and scouts to evaluate the next crop of NBA contributors."
Fans can purchase Flash season ticket packages for games at the McKay Event Center now by calling (801) 434-4667. Season tickets are available for as little as $4 per game and as much as $75 per game.
With the expansion to 14 teams, the D-League is realigning into three divisions for the 2007-08 season. The Southwest and West divisions will feature five teams while the Central division will have four. The Flash will play in the West division.
The Divisions for the 2007-08 season will break down as follows:
Central
Dakota Wizards
Fort Wayne Mad Ants
Iowa Energy
Sioux Falls Skyforce
Southwest
Albuquerque Thunderbirds
Austin Toros
Colorado 14ers
Rio Grande Valley Vipers
Tulsa 66ers
West
Anaheim Arsenal
Bakersfield Jam
Idaho Stampede
Los Angeles D-Fenders
Utah Flash
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Jazz, Celtics Announced as Utah Flash Affiliates
Jazz, Celtics Announced as Utah Flash Affiliates
OREM, Utah, July 5, 2007 - The expansion Utah Flash of the NBA Development League will be affiliated with the Utah Jazz and the Boston Celtics for the 2007-08 season, according to an announcement today by the NBA. The Jazz and Celtics may assign players in their first or second NBA seasons to play with the Flash.
"We are delighted to be affiliated with such storied NBA franchises and look forward to working with them on a daily basis," said Flash Owner Brandt Andersen. "Plans are in motion for affiliate nights at the McKay Event Center so that Flash fans that are already seeing tomorrow's Jazz and Celtics stars will also be able to be further immersed in what is already going to be one of the top entertainment values in Utah."
The D-League's assignment system with the NBA will enter its third season in 2007-08. Over the first two seasons, NBA teams have assigned 53 players a total of 77 times, including 30 selections from the 2005 and 2006 NBA Drafts. Last season, a total of 47 former NBA draft picks played in the D-League.
"The opportunity to work with the Utah Jazz is one of the highlights of my position with the Flash, and the Boston Celtics are one of the most heralded teams in all of pro sports," said Flash General Manager David Fredman. "The Jazz and Celtics are both organizations that one would do well to emulate. My experience with the Jazz obviously goes way back and I have known (Celtics Executive Director of Basketball Operations) Danny Ainge for a long time as an opponent. It will be nice to finally be able to work together."
Players on the current Jazz roster who would be eligible to be assigned in 2007-08 include unsigned 2007 NBA Draft selections Morris Almond and Kyrylo Fesensko, as well as Dee Brown, Ronnie Brewer and Paul Millsap, who are scheduled to play in the Rocky Mountain Revue presented by StoresOnline at Salt Lake Community College beginning July 13.
"We are excited to have the Flash as our new D-League affiliate for the upcoming season, and hopefully for many more in the future," said Kevin O'Connor, Utah Jazz senior vice president of basketball operations. "Because we share common basketball philosophies and ideals, we can work on a parallel track to maximize player development and produce a winning attitude."
Celtics' players currently eligible to be assigned include unsigned 2007 Draft selections Glen Davis and Gabe Pruitt, as well as second-year players Allan Ray, Rajon Rondo, and Leon Powe, all of whom are scheduled to be on Boston's summer league roster at the 2007 NBA Summer League presented by adidas in Las Vegas.
"The Celtics are happy to be associated with the Utah Flash," said Ainge. "The Flash is located near familiar territory where I played a few years ago, on the campus of BYU. I'm sure the Flash will provide some memorable games of their own."
Jazz guard CJ Miles was assigned to NBADL affiliates in both his first and second NBA seasons, to the Albuquerque Thunderbirds in 2005-06 and to the Idaho Stampede last season. He averaged 12.7 points and 3.5 rebounds in 11 games for the T-Birds and 17.3 points and 5.4 rebounds in eight games with the Stampede.
The Celtics have also embraced the NBADL, assigning guard Gerald Green and forward Dwayne Jones in 2005-06. Green played nine games, averaging 11.9 points and 4.9 boards, while Jones averaged 8.9 points and 11.7 rebounds in 26 games. Guard Allan Ray was assigned for two games last season, averaging 14.5 points and 2.5 rebounds.
2007-08 NBA DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE TEAM AFFILIATIONS
Albuquerque Thunderbirds:Philadelphia 76ers Phoenix Suns
Anaheim Arsenal:Atlanta HawksLos Angeles Clippers Orlando Magic
Austin Toros:San Antonio Spurs
Bakersfield Jam:Golden State Warriors Sacramento Kings
Colorado 14ers (Broomfield):Denver Nuggets New Jersey Nets Toronto Raptors
Dakota Wizards (Bismarck, ND):Memphis Grizzlies Washington Wizards
Fort Wayne Mad Ants:Detroit PistonsIndiana Pacers
Idaho Stampede (Boise):Portland Trail Blazers Seattle SuperSonics
Iowa Energy (Des Moines):Chicago Bulls Miami Heat
Los Angeles D-Fenders:Los Angeles Lakers
Rio Grande Valley Vipers (TX):Cleveland CavaliersHouston Rockets New Orleans Hornets
Sioux Falls SkyForce (SD):Charlotte Bobcats Minnesota Timberwolves
Tulsa 66ers:Dallas MavericksMilwaukee Bucks New York Knicks
Utah Flash (Orem):Boston Celtics Utah Jazz
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Utah Flash Name Brad Jones Head Coach
Utah Flash Name Brad Jones Head Coach
OREM, UTAH (May 24, 2007) – Brandt Andersen, Utah Flash owner, announced today that Brad Jones will serve as head coach for Utah County's NBA Development League team. Jones, currently a regional scout for the Utah Jazz, was joined at the announcement by Jazz head coach Jerry Sloan and other Jazz and Utah Flash officials.
The Utah Flash sought a coach whose style and philosophies could further strengthen its minor-major league partnership with the Jazz, its NBA affiliate starting next season. Jones said, "The Jazz way is the right way to teach and to play. I look forward to modeling their style and gaining their trust as the coach of their minor league affiliate."
Jones has scouted for the Jazz since 2001. He is also an adjunct professor at Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies. Prior to teaching at SLU, Jones was associate athletics director and head men's basketball coach at Lambuth University in Jackson, Tenn. At Lambuth, Jones earned two Mid-South Conference titles, was twice named conference Coach of the Year, coached five consecutive seasons with 20+ wins, and led the team to its first national tournament appearance in school history.
A native of Frankin, Tenn., Jones currently resides in Hammond, La. with his wife, Lori, and their three children, Justin, Isabella and Jackson.
Brad Jones is introduced as the new coach of the Utah Flash at a press conference.
OREM, UTAH (May 24, 2007) – Brandt Andersen, Utah Flash owner, announced today that Brad Jones will serve as head coach for Utah County's NBA Development League team. Jones, currently a regional scout for the Utah Jazz, was joined at the announcement by Jazz head coach Jerry Sloan and other Jazz and Utah Flash officials.
The Utah Flash sought a coach whose style and philosophies could further strengthen its minor-major league partnership with the Jazz, its NBA affiliate starting next season. Jones said, "The Jazz way is the right way to teach and to play. I look forward to modeling their style and gaining their trust as the coach of their minor league affiliate."
Jones has scouted for the Jazz since 2001. He is also an adjunct professor at Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies. Prior to teaching at SLU, Jones was associate athletics director and head men's basketball coach at Lambuth University in Jackson, Tenn. At Lambuth, Jones earned two Mid-South Conference titles, was twice named conference Coach of the Year, coached five consecutive seasons with 20+ wins, and led the team to its first national tournament appearance in school history.
A native of Frankin, Tenn., Jones currently resides in Hammond, La. with his wife, Lori, and their three children, Justin, Isabella and Jackson.
Brad Jones is introduced as the new coach of the Utah Flash at a press conference.
Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE/Getty Images
Get To Know The Utah Flash
Get To Know The Utah Flash
OREM, UTAH (April 17, 2007) - Utah Valley entrepreneur Brandt Andersen announced the name of his new NBA Development League team today -- the Utah Flash. He unveiled the Utah Flash name and logo at a press conference attended by representatives of the NBA and Utah Jazz, public officials, team sponsors and other community leaders.
David Fredman, a 28-year veteran of the Utah Jazz, has accepted the post of general manager of the Utah Flash. Fredman's position was announced at the same press conference. In addition to his many years of service to the Jazz (including assistant coach /director of scouting), he also recently served as the assistant general manager of the Denver Nuggets.
Andersen plans to announce the name of the team's head coach late this spring.
In addition to Andersen and Fredman, speakers at the event included NBA D-League president Phil Evans, former Utah Jazz coach Frank Layden and Dennis Haslam, president of Larry H. Miller Sports and Entertainment.
The team will compete against 14 other NBA D-League teams (12 existing and two new franchises) in the 2007-08 season, which starts in November. They will play at Orem's McKay Events Center. In the meantime, famed architect Frank Gehry is designing an arena for the team as part of Andersen's mixed-use development near the Point of the Mountain in Lehi. The development is themed around action sports and healthy living.
OREM, UTAH (April 17, 2007) - Utah Valley entrepreneur Brandt Andersen announced the name of his new NBA Development League team today -- the Utah Flash. He unveiled the Utah Flash name and logo at a press conference attended by representatives of the NBA and Utah Jazz, public officials, team sponsors and other community leaders.
David Fredman, a 28-year veteran of the Utah Jazz, has accepted the post of general manager of the Utah Flash. Fredman's position was announced at the same press conference. In addition to his many years of service to the Jazz (including assistant coach /director of scouting), he also recently served as the assistant general manager of the Denver Nuggets.
Andersen plans to announce the name of the team's head coach late this spring.
In addition to Andersen and Fredman, speakers at the event included NBA D-League president Phil Evans, former Utah Jazz coach Frank Layden and Dennis Haslam, president of Larry H. Miller Sports and Entertainment.
The team will compete against 14 other NBA D-League teams (12 existing and two new franchises) in the 2007-08 season, which starts in November. They will play at Orem's McKay Events Center. In the meantime, famed architect Frank Gehry is designing an arena for the team as part of Andersen's mixed-use development near the Point of the Mountain in Lehi. The development is themed around action sports and healthy living.
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