Orient Express Possibility Of Coaching In China Develops Quickly For Ex-Nic Boss Williams

Rolly Williams knows a little about China and a ton about basketball.

His knowledge of both might be merging soon.

The former North Idaho College men’s basketball coach is 80 percent certain he’ll be coaching in a Chinese professional league by mid-November. Details are being finalized, but Williams anticipates leaving Coeur d’Alene for China next week.

“I think it’ll be an adventure, to say the least,” said Williams, who retired after his 35th season at NIC in 1996. “It’s really happened very quickly.”

The opportunity came with assistance from former Idaho Vandals coach Joe Cravens, currently an assistant at Weber State.

“About a week ago Joe called and he’d been in contact with a gentleman in Los Angeles who is involved with international possibilities,” Williams said. “I sent my resume and they called and said it’s about an 80 percent go.”

Williams should learn where he’ll be stationed within a few days.

The eight-team league plays a 28-game schedule. Playoffs are in late March and early April. Each team is allowed two foreign players, usually Americans. Williams would have roughly one week to prepare his team before games begin.

“I’m glad I could help him out,” Cravens said. “I hope it works out for him.”

The league operates under NBA rules, so Williams will have to modify his strategies.

“I’ve got to start thinking about 24-second shot clocks and you can’t zone legally,” he said. “It kind of changes some of my basic thoughts on pressure and half-court traps.”

Beyond basketball, Williams is eager to learn more about China. He should have a head start toward adjusting, since China falls under his numerous reading topics.

“It’s exciting to think about visiting a culture that is 5,000 years old to begin with,” he said. “Basketball is something I’ll have to attend to immediately, but an additional part for me is to be immersed in their culture.”

The pay isn’t great, but the team takes care of expenses, he said.

Williams said that if everything looks all right, his wife, Shari, will likely join him in January.

After the season, Williams plans on returning to Coeur d’Alene.

“I’ve got to get ready for my golf game,” he said.

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