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Moton 'anxiously awaiting' debut, NCCU at UNC

• Moton ready for challenge at NCCU

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Nov 11, 2009

Most people are nervous before their first day at a new job, and understandably so.  Now, let's say that job is head basketball coach at a small Division-I school, taking on the reigning national champions on their home court. 

Extremely nervous, perhaps?

While Wednesday is not technically LeVelle Moton's first day on the job, it is his first regular season game as N.C. Central's head coach.  Moton tells 99.9 FM The Fan ESPN Radio, he's handling the game-day nerves pretty well.

"I wouldn't describe myself as nervous, Moton told The Insiders.  "I'd describe myself as anxiously awaiting. I'm more so nervous for the guys."

"I just hope we are able to, just kind of whether their nervous storm."

Moton says a number of his Eagles players are actually Carolina fans.  The challenge will be to help his team avoid intimidation at the Dean Dome.  Will NC Central break out the tape measurer before the game, a la Gene Hackman in Hoosiers?

"That's the first thing we're going to do, is measure the rim," Moton answered.

While the Eagles are the heavy underdog against the Tar Heels, Moton will coach to win vs. sixth-ranked UNC.  However, the first-year coach at NCCU will not berate his team simply for losing.

"I just want them to go out, relax and have fun."

Moton also commented on his own performance.  How will he behave on the sidelines while his team is on the court?

"History has shown that I'm a take-off-his-jacket type of guy," says Moton.

"Not quite the sweater, like Gary Williams."

Most Recent Comments

By Hokie 94
Posted Nov 11, 8:50 p.m.

Rank: Sports Legend
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RE: Moton 'anxiously awaiting' debut, NCCU at UNC

I watched the Coaches interview. I truly thought he was smart and funny. He has the personality that it takes to get people to follow him. Wishing him the best this season.

By tarheelbasketballfan
Posted Nov 11, 8:30 p.m.

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RE: Moton 'anxiously awaiting' debut, NCCU at UNC

Moton is very likeable man. He is a very good coach, that probably won't be at NCCU very long. I wish him well, except for tonight.

By Deacons
Posted Nov 11, 7:32 p.m.

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Location: Raleigh, NC

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RE: Moton 'anxiously awaiting' debut, NCCU at UNC

I saw that coaches show and I really like Moton. Go Eagles!

By mccpry2
Posted Nov 11, 6:53 p.m.

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Location: Rougemont, NC

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RE: Moton 'anxiously awaiting' debut, NCCU at UNC

Win or lose, well, probably lose, he'll remember this game I'm sure.

By TruthBKnown Returns
Updated Nov 11, 6:25 p.m.

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Location: Raleigh, NC

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RE: Moton 'anxiously awaiting' debut, NCCU at UNC

Go Eagles, baby!!! haha!!!

Not long ago, they had one of those press conferences with all the coaches from this area, Sid, Coach K, Roy and Moton. I thought Moton kinda stole the show a little bit. He was pretty funny. I wish him well. Especially tonight. heh heh!