Basketball Coach News features Coach Irvin Harris and Peter Mingils as they interview 10 year NBA Player and College Coach, Damone Brown
Basketball Coach News on Building Fortunes Radio is hosted by Coach Irvin Harris and Peter Mingils every week, and Damone Brown is an exceptional guest.
Damone Brown: Buffalo’s Basketball Architect Building a National Contender
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Basketball Coach News welcomes back listeners and readers to another feature from Building Fortunes Radio. Host Irvin Harris, alongside Peter Mingils, sits down with a figure who represents the heart of Western New York basketball. Buffalo native and former Syracuse University standout Damone Brown reached the highest level of the sport, competing in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers, Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets, and Washington Wizards.
Today, Brown is shaping the next generation of talent in his hometown. Now in his eighth season as Head Coach and sixth as Director of Athletics at Bryant and Stratton Buffalo, he has built one of the most consistent programs in the USCAA. With more than 130 wins, multiple Vaden Cup Championships, and annual national rankings, the Bobcats have become a powerhouse under his leadership.
Below is our exclusive Basketball Coach News Q and A with Coach Brown, covering program building, coaching philosophy, and the outlook for the current season.
Q and A With Coach Damone Brown
Building the Program
1. Consistency
You have led Bryant and Stratton Buffalo to the USCAA National Tournament every year you have coached. What is the secret to maintaining that level of consistency season after season?
2. The Dual Role
You serve as both Head Coach and Athletic Director. How does being the AD influence your coaching approach, and does it change the way you recruit players?
3. Big Wins Across Levels
Your teams have earned wins against NCAA Division II and III programs, as well as NAIA and NJCAA opponents. What does that say about the talent level and competitive standard at Bryant and Stratton?
Background and Coaching Philosophy
4. NBA Influence
You played for several respected NBA organizations. Which coach or teammate from your professional career has influenced your coaching style the most at the collegiate level?
5. Hometown Pride
As a Buffalo native, how important is it for you to keep local talent in the city and show young players that they can reach the pros or achieve major success right here at Bryant and Stratton?
6. The Runner Up Mentality
You finished as National Runner Up in 2022 and 2023. What did those deep tournament runs teach you about what it takes to finally break through and win a national championship?
The Current Season
7. Early Momentum
You are off to a 2 and 0 start this season. What have you seen from this group that makes you believe another deep postseason run is possible?
8. Player Development
You have coached 19 All Americans. When evaluating recruits, what is the one non negotiable trait a player must have to succeed in your program?
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