The Memphis Grizzlies today announced that Matt Woodley has been named head coach of the Iowa Energy, the team’s NBA Development League affiliate. Woodley becomes the fifth head coach in franchise history after spending the past two seasons with the Energy organization.
Woodley, who served as associate head coach last season, joined the Energy as an assistant coach for the 2014-15 season.
“We are pleased to announce Matt as head coach of the Iowa Energy,” Grizzlies General Manager Chris Wallace said. “As evidenced last season, our affiliation with the Iowa Energy provides us a critical resource in the development of our players and institution of our organization’s philosophies. Matt’s coaching acumen and background within the Energy franchise make him a terrific fit.”
“We are excited to promote Matt and are confident he is the right person to continue the proud history of Iowa Energy basketball,” said Energy General Manager & Grizzlies Director of Basketball Operations Chris Makris. “Matt has readied himself for this position by playing a tremendous role in the development of our players during his two seasons with our organization.”
Prior to joining the Energy, Woodley served as head coach of the Truman State Bulldogs men’s basketball program for three seasons (2011-2014). He guided the Bulldogs to the 2013 MIAA Tournament while three players earned All-MIAA honors. In addition, Woodley also served as an assistant coach at Washington State University (2006-09), Middle Tennessee State University (2004-06) and the University of Denver (2001-04).
Woodley graduated in 2000 from Drake University with a degree in elementary education and played three seasons for the Bulldogs. He started 83 games and finished his career as the all-time leader in steals and second all-time in three-pointers. During his senior season, Woodley was named the team’s MVP.
Woodley comes from a family of coaches; his father Mike is the head coach of the Grand View University football team while his brother Joe is the associate head coach. His brother Brian is the head coach of the Johnston High School varsity football team and his brother Andy is an assistant coach of the Grand View University men’s basketball program.
Season tickets for the 2016-2017 season are on sale now. For more information, visit IowaNBA.com or contact the Energy at (515)-564-8550. For more information on the Energy, ‘like’ the Iowa Energy on Facebook or follow on Twitter (@iowaenergy).