Rams Lock in Coaching Combination

Assistant Coach Completes Book Hat Trick for 2022

The Canterbury Rams confirmed today that a well-known name in New Zealand basketball will complete a talented combination to lead their 2022 campaign.

Newly appointed Rams Assistant Coach Ed Book joins Head Coach Judd Flavell, alongside assistants Ben Sheat and Adam Morgan, bringing a wealth of experience with him.

Book is the third family member to sign with the Rams for 2022. Sons Josh and Nic will step into the National Basketball League this season, completing a Canterbury hat trick for this Kiwi-American family.

“We love the history and experience that Ed brings to this organisation,” says Canterbury Rams General Manager Caleb Harrison. “Ed understands what it takes to be a long time professional as well as playing for the Tall Blacks. He will be a huge asset supporting our Kiwi players taking the next step in their careers.”

Book has been a fixture in New Zealand’s National Basketball League since 1994.

The seasoned All-Star was consistently one of the best post players in the league, winning Outstanding Forward in 1996, Outstanding Kiwi Forward in 2002 and named to the All-Star Five both years.

Book played in every NBL season from 1994 to 2007 and was part of the championship-winning Nelson Giants franchise in his final season.

During the Tall Blacks world championship campaign in 2002, Book debuted against China, stepping into a starting role to fill in for an injured Sean Marks. Ed was an integral part of the team that ended up finishing fourth. This Tall Blacks team is widely recognised as one of the primary catalysts for the exponential growth that has been seen in New Zealand in recent years. Ed played alongside current Rams coach Judd Flavell and former Rams coach Mark Dickel on this Tall Black team. He went on to help New Zealand bring home a silver medal from the 2006 Commonwealth Games, retiring from the Tall Blacks after that final.

Canterbury Rams Head Coach Judd Flavell calls Book “the complete coaching package” from the Rams’ point of view, given the organisation’s role in community development.

“Ed understands the value of creating solid pathways, from school and club to representative level and high performance. He understands the unique demands at each level, and what support athletes and coaches need, to realise their potential.”