The basketball court at East Union High’s Dalben Center will be named in honor of Bill Stricker.
He’s the retired boys hoop coach for the Lancers.
The Manteca Unified school board made it official Tuesday, unanimously approving to have Sticker’s name on the basketball court.
His name was the only one recommended by a committee made up of East Union alumni and boys basketball boosters, according to Superintendent Jason Messer.
“I know Bill — you can’t get a better person than him (for the naming of the court),” said board Vice President Bob Wallace, who had concerns about honoring others in similar fashion in the future.
He added: “But what happens if someone (great) comes around in 30 years?”
Daniel Teicheira Stadium at Sierra High, Bennie Gatto Field at Paul Wiggins Stadium in Lathrop, and Guss Schmeidt Field and Winters Gym at Manteca High are among the MUSD facilities named in honor of others.
Trustees hinted at looking to revisit their policy on the naming of facilities.
As for Sticker, he coached the Lancers from 1977 to 2000. Former NBA player and current Washington Wizards coach Scott Brooks, Gary Kron and Eric Simoni were among the many he coached.
Striker had a stellar collegiate career at the University of the Pacific, from 1966 to 1970, playing along with the likes of John Gianelli (New York Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks) and Keith Swaggerty.
In addition, he served as Dean of Athletics at East Union.
To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com.
Board names basketball court at EU after Stricker