Friends Select Alumnus Justin LaBrusciano ‘20 will step in as assistant coach under Percell Coles, head coach of the Friends Select basketball team.
Justin plans to be another set of eyes and additional support for the basketball team. Justin was hired by Bill Klose, Friends Select’s Athletic Director. According to Bill, an assistant coach will take on the role of guiding the team, however far they go in the upcoming season. Bill knew that Justin would be a great fit for that position. Bill also said Justin was hired as a “cerebral player” while playing at Friends Select. Justin’s youth allows him to connect to the players on a different level: “He sees the game as a player.” Bill adds, “He’s trustworthy and will be a very good fit”.
Friends Select basketball players are anticipating a positive impact from Justin. Players have agreed that Justin seems professional and knows the game well. “He’s definitely gonna affect the team in positive ways, teaching the players what to do and how to do it,” said Jaylen Hylick ‘26, a combo guard for the Friends Select basketball team. “He really knows what he’s talking about, and he’s a great coach overall, even though I just met him.”
Players embraced Justin and acknowledged his strengths as a coach during the summer and fall offseason. Bill gave Justin “leeway” heading into the summer, allowing him to take over when Percell Coles, head coach of the Friends Select Falcons, was unavailable which allowed him to take over.
Justin is excited to be back as a non-student. Justin explains, “I’m looking forward to getting back in the gym. I haven’t been back to Friends Select since I graduated, so I’m just excited to be back.” Justin plans to potentially use this experience to reach further goals. When asked if he’d like to be a head coach one day and at what level, he responded, “Potentially. The highest level I can get to.”
Justin may retain other responsibilities other than being an assistant coach for the Varsity basketball team, such as coaching JV basketball. Justin has not solidified what all his responsibilities may be during the upcoming season.
