Nov. 18, 1999

Memphis, Tenn. - University of Memphis interim basketball coach Johnny Jones announced Thursday the addition of former Christian Brothers University coach Charlie Leonard to the Tiger staff.

"Charlie has a great understanding of the game," Jones said. "He has a knack of teaching the fundamentals of basketball. We were very fortunate he had an interest in being part of our staff."

"To me, this is like extended community service," Leonard said. "The difference is there are longer hours and there is a paycheck involved. Having been a Memphian since 1971 one thing I understand is the pulse of this town is right here on campus. I look forward to being a part of the U of M family."

Leonard was a two-time NAIA District 24 Coach of the Year at CBU and is the school's second winningest coach. The Buccaneers had six consecutive winning seasons and had 20 or more wins three consecutive years during Leonard's tenure (1990-97).

Leonard, a 1975 graduate of Christian Brothers College, began his coaching career at Memphis Prep High School and coached 12 seasons at Christian Brothers High School, winning a state championship in 1987.

For the past two years Leonard has owned an advertising and consulting firm Memphis.