Weber State University announced Friday the appointment of Kaleb Canales as the new head coach for their men’s basketball program.
The 47-year-old coach brings extensive experience to the position, having served as associate head coach at Troy University this past season when the team earned an NCAA Tournament berth.
Canales boasts nearly two decades of professional basketball experience in the NBA, including a notable period as interim head coach for the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2011-12 season.
“I am truly honored and humbled to be named the head coach of Weber State men’s basketball,” Canales stated in the university’s announcement. “I want to thank President Leslie Durham and Director of Athletics Tim Crompton for their belief in me and my vision for this program.”
“We will build a culture that is connected on both ends of the floor, connected in the classroom, and connected to the community. This is a program with a proud tradition, a world-class institution, and a passionate fan base. I’m ready to get to work.”
Canales steps into the role previously held by Eric Duft, who concluded his four-year tenure as the Wildcats’ head coach and moved into an administrative position within the university.
Athletics Director Tim Crompton praised the selection, saying, “Kaleb’s extensive background at the highest levels of the game, combined with his elite ability to evaluate and recruit talent, makes him an outstanding fit for our program. His infectious energy will resonate deeply with our fans.”
The Wildcats, based in Ogden, Utah, concluded this past season with a 16-16 overall record and went 10-8 in Big Sky Conference play. The program has not appeared in the NCAA Tournament since 2016.
