NCAA Division One Assistant Coach takes over at London United
London United has the incredible pleasure to announce former University of Portland assistant coach Kramer Knutson as the next Head Coach of London United Basketball Academy.
A stellar student-athlete, Kramer spent his NCAA career at the University of Portland. He was a four-year starter and team captain, three times named to the West Coast Conference All- Academic Team, twice earned National Association of Basketball Coaches Honours Court recognition, and was selected to the Academic All-District 8 first-team as a senior. As a Portland Pilot he had success alongside his former teammate and current Euroleague superstar, Luke Sikma of Alba Berlin.
After a successful collegiate career Kramer progressed to a professional career playing in the top leagues in Switzerland, Romania and then England. His first professional season was 2011-12 for BBC Nyon in Switzerland, followed by a year in Romania for CSU Sibiu. His final two pro seasons were in the British Basketball League (BBL) as a member of the London Lions (2013-14) and then in Surrey United (2014-15). In his final season, Kramer and Jack Majewski worked together where Kramer led the BBL in rebounds and was second in blocked shots. He was also voted Fan Player of the Season during both years in the UK.
After his professional playing career in Europe, Kramer took on the full-time position with the NCAA Division I Pilots in 2015 as Director of Basketball Operations and subsequently Assistant Coach for the NBA legend Terry Porter. In true Kramer fashion, he took his job with gusto and helped the Pilots put together the No. 10 ranked recruiting class in the nation for 2017 (Hoop Scoop).
The 17-year NBA veteran and twice NBA Head Coach, Terry Porter has left no doubts about his feelings regarding Kramer:
“During my association with Kramer, I have found him to be extremely professional with an outstanding work ethic. Kramer is very bright, energetic and extremely knowledgeable in the areas of offensive and defense situations. Kramer has many fine attributes, but what impresses me most is his ability to effectively communicate with the student-athletes and coaches in a manner that has earned their instant respect.”
Equally enthusiastic was Kramer’s former coach Eric Reveno, current Associate Head Coach at Oregon State Men’s Basketball
“He has proven experience in player development, practice planning, in-game strategy, parent relations, budget management, staff management, program promotion through social media, fundraising, summer camp directing, academic advising coordination, and NCAA compliance. There is not any part of running a basketball program that I have not seen him take full responsibility for and excel.”
Emma Chambers, Future Stars CEO, stated;
“We are privileged to have Kramer take over our Academy programme, Kramer brings with him a wealth of experience both as a player and coach to help take our Academy to the next level. We are extremely excited to take advantage of his ability to develop athletes at the highest collegiate level. Kramer’s expertise and analytical knowledge of all aspects of NCAA requirements and participation will provide our Academy student-athletes with an unrivalled opportunity to progress to a successful career in the US academic system”.
Coach Kramer is due to join the programme for the 2022/23 season subject to visa/work approval.
For more details on our academy programme please get in touch via 07951 762 821 or gm@londonunited.eu