The Ottawa BlackJacks have announced that current head coach James Derouin has been elevated into a dual coach/GM role ahead of the 2024 CEBL season.
Derouin has served as head coach of the club since June 5th 2022, helping guide the team to a franchise record 12 wins in 2023. His role will now focus on leading the development of a comprehensive basketball operations strategy, and will give him additional responsibilities in the recruitment and signing of players for the upcoming season.
“I am truly honored and excited to embrace the dual role of General Manager and Head Coach for the Ottawa BlackJacks, allowing me to further contribute to the growth and success of our local professional basketball team. This marks a significant milestone in my professional career and a great professional development opportunity. I couldn’t be more excited to embark on this journey with my BlackJacks family. I want to express my gratitude to Jevohn Shepherd, who has laid a solid foundation for this team, for entrusting me with this incredible opportunity. I would also like to take a moment to recognize the invaluable support I received from the University of Ottawa.”
An Ottawa native, Derouin will now work closely with VP of basketball operations Jevohn Shepherd to help guide the BlackJacks into another season of CEBL action. Ottawa has made the playoffs in each of its first 4 seasons in the league, advancing to the semi-finals 3 straight years, before bowing out in the quarter finals this past season.
“As I pass the torch, I am thoroughly impressed with James’s work, and there’s no doubt he fully deserves this tremendous opportunity. Over the years, James has forged remarkable relationships with players and staff, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to the team. My tenure as the General Manager of the BlackJacks has been an enriching experience that contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth. I am genuinely excited to remain within the organization, where I’ll continue to support James and the rest of the basketball operations staff.”
With a career regular season record of 201-60 (.770) at the University of Ottawa in U-Sports action, Derouin is one of the most successful coaches in school history. He currently oversees the GeeGees Men’s basketball team, which is ranked 2nd in the Country.
Photo: Ottawa BlackJacks