Coming Back Home: David Noel (Free)
Former Southern Durham High School standout David Noel was named the head coach at his alma mater this past week. The University of North Carolina standout answered some questions with PrepHoopNC’s Justin Byerly this afternoon.
Justin Byerly: What have you been doing since you’re playing days from North Carolina?
David Noel: From UNC I was drafted to the NBA by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2nd round of the 2006 draft… 39th overall pick … from there I went and played multiple years overseas starting off in Spain and finishing my career this past May in France. It was a great run and really enjoyed my time but happy to be done playing the game and excited for the opportunity to pass on my knowledge to the game and help each kid reach their goals on and off the court …
Justin Byerly: What got you into coaching?
David Noel: I’ve always kinda knew I wanted to coach the game when I was done. I just remember the impact my coaches had on me at a young age and how they helped me become the man I am today. Enjoyed that feeling and wanted to pass that on once I had the chance.
Justin Byerly: Jomaru Brown is one of the top 2018 prospects in the state, being a fellow SD alum, what advice would you give him for the recruiting process?
David Noel: Being that it’s been 15 plus yeas since I was recruited, I’m sure things have changed a bit lol… nonetheless I want to help Jomaru get as many looks as possible. He is a great kid and is very talented.y advice would be to keep a straight and level head… continue to work on his game and when the right school comes alone he will get that good feeling down in his stomach. It’s my job as his new coach to put him in the best situations on the floor to succeed but also help him to understand that nothing can get done without the classroom being intact… handle that business first and basketball will follow.
Justin Byerly: How cool is it to be coaching the school that you were a player at?
David Noel: Man it feels amazing… I’m super excited for the opportunity and want to thank Mr. Leathers and Ms. Massenburg for the opportunity… now it’s about the work… we have to put in the work both in the classroom and on the floor to help these kids reach levels they inspire to reach. I’m happy to be apart of it all and can’t wait to get started