June 9, 2008

 

 

Though his playing career ended in 2003, Brandin Knight has continued to be an important contribution to the University of Pittsburgh's men's basketball program. In 2006, Knight joined the Panthers staff as the Program Assistant/ Video Coordinator, and in 2007 was named Director of Basketball Operations. On June 6, Knight was once again promoted as he became the team's new assistant coach. PittsburghPanthers.com caught up with Knight to discuss Pitt basketball, his accomplishments as a player and his new opportunity as assistant coach.

 

 

 

What projects have you been working on since the season has ended?

 

"Mainly, it's been getting the players ready for the summer. We have been focusing on getting the paperwork and housing in order for our incoming freshman and second year players."

 

 

 

Are you able to stay close with your family with your busy schedule?

 

"Definitely, my family is a top priority in my life. My daughter loves coming to the gym and I think it's a healthy environment for her."

 

 

 

What is it like having an older brother who plays in the NBA?

 

"It's great, we speak to each other every day. He has been able to play for many different coaches so he can offer great advice. He knows what the next level is like, which helps me teach the current players."

 

 

 

What has the experience been like working with Coach Dixon and the rest of the coaching staff?

 

"It's been a lot of fun. It's great to be able to learn from all the coaches, they all have something to offer. The quick turnovers in our staff are a result of how great our system is."

 

 

 

What does it feel like to be named the new assistant coach of the Panthers?

 

"I'm really excited about the task ahead of me. I feel that I'm ready to dive in and do a great job."

 

 

 

How will this new position be different than when you were the director of operations?

 

"Being the Director of Operations consisted of more administrative work such as organizing meetings and community service. As an assistant coach, I will be able to work more closely with the program and interact much more with the players."

 

 

What are your own goals in the coaching profession?

 

"Right now, I want to be the best assistant coach I can be. Eventually, my ultimate goal is to become a head coach, but in the coming months I will try to soak up as much knowledge as I can about being a great assistant."

 

 

 

Are you able to participate in the recruiting aspect of the basketball program? If so, what is that like for you?

 

"Yes, now I can recruit with the other coaches. I really look forward to it. I try to form great relationships with all the current players and hopefully I am able to extend that to younger players who will then want to take a shot with us."

 

 

 

Future Panther Ashton Gibbs attended the same prep school as you. How close are you and did your friendship help Ashton want to be a Panther?

 

"I have known Ashton since the fifth or sixth grade and we have maintained a great relationship since then. A big part of Ashton coming to Pitt was because his family felt comfortable with the University and felt it was a great place for him to be able to succeed."

 

 

 

What has been the most rewarding part of your job?

 

"The best part of my job was getting to stay in Pittsburgh. This is what I wanted to do after I graduated and I was lucky enough to do it at the school I attended."

 

 

 

What do you miss most about playing for the Panthers?

 

"Mostly the competitiveness of the game and the camaraderie you form with your teammates. Practices are something I definitely miss as well."

 

 

 

What was it like winning the Big East Tournament in 2003 after losing the two

previous years?

 

"It felt like a huge burden had been lifted off my back. We had been so close the previous years, it felt great to finally close the deal. It was also bittersweet for me as it was really my last moment with the Panthers as a player."

 

 

 

Are you able to still keep in contact with your former teammates?

 

"I still keep in contact with all of them. They are spread out, some of them overseas, so it's nice to check up on them from time to time."

 

 

 

Was it any different winning the tournament in 2008 as a coach then when you won it as a player in 2003?

 

"I would say it was a little bit more exciting winning it as a coach. As a coach you are able to see your players succeed after all they have been through. It's a great feeling. You feel like a really proud father."

 

 

 

If you could pick one favorite moment during your Pitt career, past or present, what would it be?

 

"I have to pick the two Big East Championships, in 2003 and 2008. Getting to be a part of that as a player and then a coach, that was a really big deal to me."