April 4, 2012 -
Nyack College Athletics Director Keith Davie is proud to announce the hiring of 2003 Nyack College graduate Jason Crafton as the head men’s basketball coach. Crafton previously served as an assistant coach for seven years at the United States Naval Academy. He was elevated to the role of associate head coach two seasons ago and has played a vital role in the program's success. During his tenure he assisted in all phases of the program along with serving as the head coach of the Junior Varsity team for seven seasons.
Davie states, “We are excited to have Jason bring his passion for excellence, discipline and the overall development of young men to our program. His skills and knowledge of the game perfectly fit our goal of building a winning program and we are excited to have him with us.”
In April 2011, Crafton was named by Basketball Times/Hoop Scoop as one of the top 50 mid-major assistant coaches.
“It’s a true honor to be back on the hillside to lead my alma mater. I’d like to thank Keith Davie along with the search committee for this great opportunity. I humbly accept this position with great pride in the institution and what it stands for. I look forward to getting started and igniting a new era of excitement in Nyack College basketball.”
Before his tenure at Navy, Crafton had previously served for two years as an administrative assistant with the Villanova men's basketball program that reached the NIT Quarterfinals in 2004 and the NCAA Sweet Sixteen in 2005. Crafton served in many roles while with the Wildcats, including video coordinator and the Villanova Basketball Camp coordinator.
While at Villanova, Crafton worked with 1985 NCAA champion and current Chicago Bulls Assistant Ed Pinckney who states, “Jason is a tremendous leader, motivator, communicator and recruiter. I’ve had the chance to be around many great coaches during my career as a player and coach in both college and in the NBA and, in my opinion, Jason is well on his way to becoming one of the premier coaches in America. There are not many who will outwork Jason.”
In the summer of 2004, Crafton was a member of the support staff for the Under-20 National Team Training Camp that took place at the New Jersey Nets practice facility. He served as the video coordinator, assisting the coaching staff with their preparation for the Olympic Games. That team went on to win the gold medal.
As a player at Nyack, Crafton was a three-year starter at point guard and two-year captain for the then Purple Pride. He was a member of Nyack's first-ever conference championship team in 2000 that advanced to the national tournament. Crafton graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Communications.
Jason attended Nyack College on scholarship from Upper Room Christian School. He will also be the keynote speaker for our annual Sports Banquet. Congratulations Coach!!!
Grace and Peace,
Ed
