Coach Nate Bjorkren Leaves Warriors for Team in his Native Iowa

Here is the release from the Warriors: 

Nate Bjorkgren has been named the head coach of the Iowa Energy, the team announced today. 

 Bjorkgren spent the past two seasons as the head coach of the Santa Cruz Warriors/Dakota Wizards, leading Santa Cruz to a 32-18 regular season record and a berth in the NBA D-League Finals in its inaugural campaign. With Bjorkgren at the helm, the Santa Cruz Warriors broke league records for total rebounds (2,424), defensive rebounds (1,730) and opponent field goal percentage (.408). The franchise posted a 61-39 (.610) regular season record under Bjorkgren’s leadership, and he developed five players who earned GATORADE Call-Ups to the NBA.

 “Nate is a brilliant coach and a phenomenal defensive mind,” said Santa Cruz Warriors General Manager Kirk Lacob. “His professionalism on and off the court helped guide the Santa Cruz Warriors to tremendous success in our inaugural season, and he has had a positive impact on countless players chasing the NBA dream. He will be missed in Santa Cruz and we wish him the best.”

 A native of Storm Lake, Iowa, Bjorkgren re-joins the Iowa Energy after serving four seasons as an assistant coach with the team. Under Bjorkgren and Head Coach Nick Nurse, the Energy posted a combined 124-76 record (.620), highlighted by capturing the 2011 NBA D-League Championship.

 The Santa Cruz Warriors expect to name a head coach soon. Details will be announced when the deal is finalized.