Weber State Athletics announced on Apr. 3 that Kaleb Canales has been appointed as the new head coach of the university’s men’s basketball program. Canales becomes the 11th head coach in the program’s Division I history and brings with him nearly twenty years of coaching experience at the NBA level, as well as recent collegiate experience.
The hiring is significant for Weber State, which has a tradition of success in men’s basketball and aims to continue building on its legacy. The appointment follows a national search conducted by Weber State officials.
“I am truly honored and humbled to be named the head coach of Weber State men’s basketball,” Canales said. “I want to thank President Leslie Durham and Director of Athletics Tim Crompton for their belief in me and my vision for this program.
“We will build a culture that is connected on both ends of the floor, connected in the classroom, and connected to the community. This is a program with a proud tradition, a world-class institution, and a passionate fan base. I’m ready to get to work.”
Director of Athletics Tim Crompton said: “Weber State basketball is defined by a rich history of excellence, and we were determined to find a leader who respects that legacy while possessing the modern vision to elevate it. Kaleb is an exceptional person and a world-class tactical mind who is widely regarded across the industry as a premier mentor and developer of talent.
“Following a national search involving an outstanding pool of candidates, I am grateful for our committee’s hard work and the partnership of Jeff Schemmell with College Sports Solutions. Kaleb’s extensive background at the highest levels of the game, combined with his elite ability to evaluate and recruit talent, makes him an outstanding fit for our program. His infectious energy will resonate deeply with our fans, and we are thrilled to welcome Kaleb, Cristi, and their family to the Wildcat family.”
Canales most recently served as associate head coach at Troy University where he helped guide Troy’s team to both Sun Belt regular-season and tournament championships along with an NCAA Tournament appearance last season. He began his coaching career as an assistant at UT Arlington before joining NBA ranks in 2005 with roles including interim head coach for Portland Trail Blazers—becoming NBA’s first Hispanic interim head coach—and stints as assistant coach for Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, Texas Legends (NBA G League), Calgary Surge (Canadian Elite Basketball League), among others.
Damian Lillard—NBA superstar who now serves as general manager for Weber State—said: “I’m very excited to welcome K to the Weber State family… As GM my goal is help build program high level someone coaching experience all levels like Kaleb perfect that.”
Canales holds degrees from UT Arlington (bachelor’s) Virginia Commonwealth (master’s) has worked internationally through programs such Basketball Without Borders associate role Mexico Men’s National Team since 2021.
