December 23, 2015

ST. LOUIS – Under a new working model for team staffs in the Midwest Professional Basketball Association, three coaches have agreed to take on general manager roles, while league player personnel director A.J. Guyton has expanded his role to include working with the coaching staffs.

                Handy Johnson of the Windy City Groove, Rick Pryor of the Chicago Blues, and Milton Stith of the Gateway Steam agreed to the new responsibilities last week.

                “We feel the general manager title better represents the overall duties being executed by these coaches, and will better identify their duties as representatives of the MPBA in their cities,” said C. Edward “Ed” Schumer, commissioner of the MPBA.

                “Their basketball and business experience coupled with their commitment to their communities and the youth they serve exemplifies what we look for on our staffs.  I am pleased they have accepted this additional responsibility and excited to have them in these positions,” Schumer added.

                Additionally, MPBA Director of Player Personnel A.J. Guyton has agreed to expand his responsibilities to cover working the league’s coaching staffs.  Guyton’s new title will be Director of Basketball Personnel.

                Guyton’s new duties will have him helping develop the younger coaches in the league, exposing veteran college coaches to the nuances of the professional game, as well as serving as a direct connection from all the coaches to the commissioner’s office.

                “A.J.’s instincts and talents aren’t just for handling players as a coach and evaluator,” Schumer said.  “He has shown himself to have a keen ability to relate to other coaches, and he is a perfect fit for these added responsibilities as we continue to develop the MPBA.  I don’t believe that anyone in minor league basketball is better qualified for this role.”

                The 2016 MPBA season opens on January 9, when the defending champion Champaign Swarm host the Windy City Groove.