Stephens won't return as Elgin Academy coach

Cuts at Elgin Academy for financial reasons led to the resignation of boys basketball coach Everette Stephens last month.

Stephens was one of approximately 15 employees not offered positions for the 2009-10 school year by the private school.

"Teaching is my main income, but they're not offering me the teaching position anymore so I had to decline the coaching position as well," Stephens said. "Some staff members weren't retained to teach because of the economy, and I was one of the ones that was not asked to come back.

"I don't know what I'm going to be doing next or what my schedule will be, so I can't make a commitment to continue coaching."

Stephens, who starred at Purdue University and was drafted in the second round by the Philadelphia 76ers, spent nine years at the school as a physical education teacher for grades K-8 in addition to his duties as varsity boys basketball coach.

In nine seasons his Hilltoppers compiled a record of 83-144.

"I would like to coach again," Stephens said, "but if I wasn't able to coach for a year or two it wouldn't bother me because coaching positions are going to open up. All that does is give me a chance to pick and choose which place I'd like to go. It wouldn't bother me if I missed a year due to this situation.

"I've enjoyed working with the players I've been able to work with."