Fast Break

NBA

Ex-Coug Akognon declares for draft

Cal State Fullerton guard Josh Akognon has made himself available for the 2008 NBA player draft, the school announced Friday.

Because he has not signed with an agent, he may remove himself from consideration up to 10 days before the draft and retain his senior year of NCAA eligibility. The draft is June 26 in New York City. Akognon was the leading scorer for the Titans in 2007-08 at 20.2 points per game. Akognon led Washington State in scoring in his sophomore season before transferring to Fullerton.

“Luc Richard Mbah a Moute is the latest UCLA player intending to leave early for the NBA.

The 6-foot-8 Mbah a Moute won’t hire an agent right away, keeping him eligible to return to UCLA for his senior year.

The junior forward joins freshman Kevin Love and sophomore Russell Westbrook on the NBA draft list.

Memphis All-American guard Chris Douglas-Roberts will enter the NBA draft, joining teammate Derrick Rose as an early entry to the pros.

Prep basketball

Rogers basketball coach steps down

Brian Kissinger has stepped down after five years as the boys basketball coach at Rogers. He refused comment on the reason.

Others contacted were also tight-lipped.

“He submitted a letter of resignation,” said activities coordinator Eric Anderson. “He said he no longer wished to coach and that was it. I was a little surprised.”

The Pirates were 24-70 during Kissinger’s tenure, this year finishing with their third straight 6-14 GSL record. He had been a head coach at three other high schools during a nine-year career.

Coming Sunday

Martin Stadium facelift update

The porta-potties for fans are gone and the entrance into Washington State’s Martin Stadium on Stadium Way is starting to take shape.

The current phase of the stadium upgrade is due to be finished by the end of August. Staff writer Vince Grippi explains what has been done and what still needs to be done. Staff writer Nick Eaton offers a video walkthrough of the construction.

Check it out in Sunday’s sports section and online at spokesmanreview.com.