Ottawa BlackJacks coach James Derouin adds GM title

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James Derouin has added a new hat to his professional wardrobe.

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The head coach of the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s Ottawa BlackJacks will also take on the responsibilities of general manager going forward, the team announced Monday morning.

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Moving from the GM chair but continuing his role as the team’s vice president of basketball operations will be Jevohn Shepherd, a Toronto native who played professionally overseas.

Derouin, who also is head coach of the Ottawa Gee Gees, took over the BlackJacks reins 19 months ago and last season guided the team to a franchise-best 12-8 record and a second-place finish in the Eastern Conference.

An Ottawa native, Derouin played for Gloucester high school and the Gloucester Wolverines, then went on to win a Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association national championship with Langara College in Vancouver.

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From there, he transferred to the University of Ottawa and served as the Gee-Gees team captain from 2000-02.

Derouin’s career record of 201-60 (.770) makes him the most successful coach in Gee-Gees history.

“I am truly honoured and excited to embrace the dual role of general manager and head coach for the Ottawa BlackJacks, allowing me to further continue to the growth and success of our local professional basketball team,” Derouin said in a release. “This marks a significant milestone in my professional career and a great professional development opportunity. I couldn’t be more excited to embark on this journey with my BlackJacks family.

“I want to express my gratitude to Jevohn Shepherd, who laid a solid foundation for this team, for entrusting me with this incredible opportunity. I would also like to take a moment to recognize the invaluable support I received from the University of Ottawa.”

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Shepherd is very comfortable with his choice as successor and intends to be a pillar of support for Derouin.

“As I pass the torch, I am thoroughly impressed with James’ work, and there’s no doubt he fully deserves this tremendous opportunity,” Shepherd said in a release. “Over the years, James has forged remarkable relationships with players and staff, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to the team.

“My tenure as the general manager of the BlackJacks has been an enriching experience that contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth. I am genuinely excited to remain within the organization, where I’ll continue to support James and the rest of the basketball operations staff.”

The BlackJacks, who play their home games at TD Place, will begin their fifth season in the CEBL in May.

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