Walter Roese, an assistant coach who made solid contributions to USD's men's basketball success last season and recruiting for next season, has left for a similar position at Nebraska.
Toreros head coach Bill Grier said Roese's decision was finalized within the last two weeks and the search for a replacement would probably last through the middle of next month.
“It's very disappointing to lose him because he was such a big part of the staff, but I know he'll do well wherever he goes,” Grier said. “If it's the best thing for him and his family, I wish him nothing but the best.”
Roese, a native of Brazil, was a graduate of BYU-Hawaii with a master's degree from BYU and had served as a Cougars assistant for two years – becoming the first Brazilian full-time assistant in Division I men's basketball – before joining Grier's staff last season.
Grier's first season as a head coach after 16 years as an assistant at Gonzaga produced a 22-14 record, a West Coast Conference Tournament championship and the first NCAA Tournament victory for a San Diego Division I school, 70-69 in overtime over Connecticut.
Roese, who is fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese, was also the primary contact for two native Brazilians, forwards Luciano de Souza (6-7, 200) and Roberta Mafra (6-9, 240), who are transferring to USD from U.S. community colleges for their junior seasons starting next fall.
Grier said he has been assured by both players that Roese's departure will not affect their commitments to USD.
With NCAA rules making the period between now and July 6 a “down” time regarding recruiting activities, Grier said there's no imminent need to find Roese's replacement. He is interviewing prospects and said he hopes to make a decision by mid-June.
Hank Wesch: (619) 293-1853; hank.wesch@uniontrib.com
