Cleveland State Women's Basketball Hires New Assistant Coach

Cleveland State has a new assistant women's basketball coach, and it's a familiar face.

The Cougars hired Christian Overall, who used to play basketball at Cleveland State where he finished in the top 20 in the country in scoring. He played a year under former head coach Lee Cigliano and a year under current head coach Rafael Howard.

"Cleveland has always been good to me, it has helped build life-long relationships," Overall said. "My aspirations are to touch as many of these young lady's lives as possible and to be a positive attribute not only on the basketball side, but also the community."

After playing at Cleveland State, Overall transferred to Lee University where he played under Tommy Brown and Bubba Smith. He had opportunities to play professionally over-seas, but his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and he decided to stay home with her.

He graduated with his Bachelor's degree in 2018. Overall has coached and trained both girls and boys at the AAU and high school levels.

Overall is being brought on to help another recent hire of Cleveland State, head coach Lisa Phillips.

"I am excited to learn from Coach Philips," Overall said. "I am beyond thankful for this opportunity and I am excited to get the ball rolling."

Phillips is happy to have an assistant coach with the experience and success that Overall brings.

"I am excited to welcome Christian here at Cleveland State," Phillips said. "He brings valuable experience with a successful playing career here at CSCC and at Lee University. He has a great mind for the game and will have an immediate impact in our program".

The Cougars are continuing to practice throughout the month of October getting ready for their season opener where they will host Bryan College on November 1 with tip off set for 5:30 p.m.