Former NC State player Richard Howell named head basketball coach at Green Hope

Green Hope High School announced a big hire for its head basketball position on Thursday morning. Former NC State standout Richard Howell will now lead the Falcons' program.
Howell was a member of the Wolfpack from 2009-2013. The 6-foot-8 forward averaged 11.2 points-per-game and 9.4 rebounds-per-game. Howell was named First Team All-ACC as a senior for averaging a double-double.
After his time at NC State, Howell had stints with the Denver Nuggets and Portland Trail Blazers of the NBA. He spent some time in the D-League and went on to play professionally in Philippines, Italy, Dominican Republic, and Israel. He played professionally through 2023.
“I am thrilled to join the Green Hope family and lead the varsity men’s basketball team,” Howell said in a statement released by Green Hope. “My journey in basketball has been incredibly rewarding, and I am excited to share my knowledge and passion for the game with the talented athletes at Green Hope.”
Howell will meet with the Green Hope community in an event at the media center on Tuesday, April 16 at 5:30 p.m.
Green Hope is coming off of a 4-20 campaign in 2023. Typically, the program has been strong. Green Hope finished with a winning record six different times during the 2010s.
Here is the release that was sent out by Green Hope this morning:
Green Hope High School Athletics is thrilled to announce the hiring of Richard Howell as the new head coach for the varsity men’s basketball team. With an impressive background in both collegiate and professional basketball, Coach Howell brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Falcons’ court.
A native of Brooklyn, New York, Coach Howell spent his youth in the basketball hotbed of Georgia before settling in Raleigh with his family. His basketball journey began at North Carolina State University, where he excelled on the court for four years, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.
During his collegiate career with the NC State Wolfpack, Coach Howell made a significant impact, leaving a lasting legacy on the program. His stats speak volumes about his prowess on the court:
- Points Per Game: 11.2
- Rebounds Per Game: 9.4
- Field Goal Percentage: 57.1%
Following his standout collegiate career, Coach Howell ventured into the professional realm, where he continued to shine. He enjoyed a brief stint in the NBA, donning the jerseys of esteemed teams such as the Portland Trailblazers and the Denver Nuggets. Though his NBA career was short-lived, Coach Howell’s impact was undeniable.
In the NBA, Coach Howell’s stats further showcased his talent and versatility:
- NBA Points Per Game: 4.1
- NBA Rebounds Per Game: 3.5
- NBA Field Goal Percentage: 49.3%
Despite his brief stint in the NBA, Coach Howell’s passion for the game led him to explore opportunities overseas, where he continued to hone his skills and make a significant impact on the international basketball scene.
Throughout his career, Coach Howell has graced courts in various countries, including Italy, France, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, and Israel. His global perspective on the game, coupled with his extensive playing experience, makes him a valuable addition to the Green Hope High School coaching staff.
“I am thrilled to join the Green Hope family and lead the varsity men’s basketball team,” Coach Howell expressed. “My journey in basketball has been incredibly rewarding, and I am excited to share my knowledge and passion for the game with the talented athletes at Green Hope.”
Apart from his love for basketball, Coach Howell is an avid gamer, showcasing his competitive spirit both on and off the court. His enthusiasm for gaming mirrors his approach to coaching, emphasizing teamwork, strategy, and dedication.
Principal Alison Cleveland commented on the hire, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Coach Howell to Green Hope High School. His impressive background and dedication to the game will undoubtedly inspire our student-athletes to reach new heights both on and off the court.”
The Green Hope High School community eagerly anticipates the upcoming basketball season under Coach Howell’s leadership, confident that his expertise will propel the Falcons to success. Come meet Coach Howell on Tuesday, April 16 at 5:30 PM in the Green Hope Media Center. As Coach Howell takes the reins of the varsity men’s basketball team, the future looks bright for Green Hope Athletics. Go Falcons!