The Eastside Catholic Crusaders boys basketball team will have a new coach on the hardwood during the 2015-16 season.

Brent Merritt, who previously was an assistant coach at Garfield High School in Seattle, was hired as the Crusaders new coach in mid-May. Merritt also has had coaching stints at Lakes High School in Lakewood and Ingraham High School in Seattle.  The Crusaders captured third place at the Class 3A state basketball tournament at the Tacoma Dome during the 2014-15 season.

“We are very excited to have Brent Merritt on board with us at Eastside Catholic,” Eastside Catholic Athletic Director Jeremy Thielbahr said. “He brings with him extensive coaching and playing experience that we know will help take our basketball program to the highest level.”

Merritt, who also played for the University of Washington men’s basketball team from 1989 through 1991, is excited about leading a program for the first time in his coaching career.

“It was just the right opportunity and the right time for me. There was some interest the past four or five years from different schools but this was just the perfect time for me. Eastside Catholic is a prestigious school with a great reputation,” Merritt said. “I’m excited about this opportunity. I’m big on fundamentals and building positive relationships with my players.”

The new face of the Crusaders basketball program has liked what he’s seen from the Crusaders wide assortment of  players during summer hoops practice sessions.

“The guys have been extremely coachable and have definitely responded quickly to what we’re trying to do. I’ve been so impressed with the improvement they’ve shown. They are putting in 100-percent effort on the court and in the weight room,” Merritt said. “I’m impressed with their attitude and willingness to learn. It has just been tremendous.”

Shaun Scott: 425-453-5045; sscott@issaquahreporter.com