Marty Gross

My system of basketball is very simple. Defensively, I like to press at the full-court level, especially after made baskets. At the half-court level play an aggressive, basket protection, penetration prevention style of defense. Offensively, I like to run after makes and misses into an early offense and incorporate both motions and set plays (depending on the game situation) at the half-court end to get the highest percentage shots at the basket possible. Defense, rebounding, and high percentage shots win games.

There are three “seasons” within the schedule; the Regular season, the WAC tournament, and the Post season. Our system will allow us to play a variety of styles and tempos. We must be able to play an up tempo style against teams that extend pressure defensively, trap, and run, because we will make those teams pay for their pressure. We must also be able to play a slower tempo, because once in the post season, play becomes more conservative and there are fewer possessions. Quick hit or “Go To” plays now become essential given time and score, especially in the closing minutes of close games.

FAMILY ENVIRONMENT

My wife, Mary Pat, and I are both from very large, close knit families that have been very supportive of me. From my early childhood on, 4 sisters and 2 brothers, not to mention a set of caring parents, have been there for me every step of the way! Mary Pat, originally from Beaumont, has 5 brothers and 5 sisters, that now follow the Rice Owls very closely.

As an undergraduate at Jacksonville, my family followed my career closely and still do. They attended many contests and got to know the JU community as I did. In my fifteenth year at Rice University, my family has attended many games and tournaments. They understand the lifestyle of a college coach and pull for me every turn! Both my immediate family and extended family are “BIG” Rice fans!!

At Rice University, Mary Pat along with my family have been an integral part of the success we have experienced. I have for some time dreamed about and discussed the opportunity to be a head coach. Rice University has always represented a healthy and complete atmosphere for its students, faculty, and staff. My family and I would be elated to continue to be a part of the university community.

My entire twenty-six years in college coaching have been cultivated and nurtured in private universities with “family” atmosphere and “family” environment.