SEASIDE, Calif. — The strong Cal State Monterey Bay women's basketball program got a little stronger with the addition of former NBA and San Jose State star Tariq Abdul–Wahad to the coaching staff.

Although this will be his first foray into collegiate coaching, the former Olivier Saint–Jean is no stranger to college basketball. He left San Jose State as one of the top players in Spartan history and had his jersey retired by the school in 2002.

“I am thrilled to become part of such an outstanding program. I hope to help as much as I possibly can in the continued success of Cal State Monterey Bay women's basketball,” says Adbul–Wahad. “My family and I view this as an incredible opportunity to continue developing as an individual and a coach under such proficient leadership. I am extremely thankful to Coach Jimenez and the athletic department for their show of confidence and join the 'Otter Family' with a big smile on my face.”

Originally selected as the 11th pick in the draft by the Sacramento Kings in 1997, Adbul–Wahad played eight seasons in the NBA for the Kings, Orlando, Denver and Dallas. He enjoyed his best statistical season in Orlando in 2000, averaging 12.2 points and 5.2 rebounds per game while making 46 starts.

“When meeting Tariq for the first time, the thing that stood out to me most was his enthusiasm for basketball and his hunger to become a great coach,” says Jimenez. “Not only is he a wonderful person, but he will be a great role model to our players.

“Having played eight seasons in the NBA, he is going to bring a wealth of experience to our program and will be a huge asset to our staff.

He is a proven winner and we know Tariq will have a positive impact on our program immediately. We are excited to welcome Tariq, his wife Khadija and their children to the Otter family.”