POCATELLO, Idaho- Bill Evans was introduced as the new men's basketball coach back in March. Since then his time has been busy hiring a staff and recruiting. He recently sat down with isubengals.com to talk about his first two months on the job and other activities he enjoys.
Why did you get into coaching?
I have always been active and eager to participate in sports. I know that the influence that coaches have had on me, some in a positive way and some in a not-so positive way. I first thought that I had all the answers but I found out very quickly that I had very few. I knew that I wanted to be honest with the student-athlete or high school athlete. I didn't want to say one thing and do another. I tried really hard to make sure that I have done that. Guys want to know the truth.
What hobbies do you have outside of basketball?
I don't hunt, fish or golf. I like to be with my family when I am not coaching, my kids and my wife. If my wife played golf I might play. We ride bikes together. I don't really have any hobbies.
What should fans expect out of your teams?
We are going to play together and be tough. We will play for the right reasons. I think we will be a tough defensive team. That is going to be my emphasis. That doesn't mean we are going to be bad offensively. I have determined that we will be a good defensive basketball team.
How are you a better head coach now then when you were at SUU?
I had an opportunity to work at Montana in a different role. I was able to watch coach Tinkle at some of the things he did. I really focused on one end and that was the defensive end. Not that I didn't pay attention to the offensive end but I wasn't involved there at all. I could sit back and watch and I learned a lot from watching.
Have you and your family been able to get settled here in Pocatello yet?
I think we are getting close to starting to settle down. My wife is in Montana. The kids get out of school in Montana around June 9. We are working on a house as we speak. I have not really settled down yet but I am looking forward to it.
What memories stick out to you of your basketball career?
Going to the NCAA tournament stands out. It is tough to get there. I have been fortunate to go three times. Winning the high school basketball championship was really special too. I am pretty sure that this year will be really special to me as I get the opportunity to be a head coach again.
Have you always been a defensive minded coach?
I think it has developed over time. When you are young you probably do too much offensively and defensively. Simplicity is real important. As a young guy I was always all over the place. Experience has taught me a great deal.
What have your first few months on the job been like?
The first couple of weeks were pretty hectic as I was trying to put together my staff. While it has been hectic it has been fun. Not many guys can wake up in the morning and have fun at work. I enjoy every moment. My guys will know where I stand and we are going to have a good time.
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