Owl hoops has new leader

ANDERSON – Anderson- Shiro has a new coach leading the Fighting Owl basketball team in 20232024. Conroe High School alum, James Glaspie, brings a plethora of basketball experience to the program.

At age five, Glaspie’s parents put him in sports which ignited a passion. Coached by his dad in high school, he was a threeyear starter earning multiple awards including being a two-time First Team All-District selection, All County and Offensive Player of the Year as a senior. He led the Tigers to their first two playoff victories since 1985. He also participated in a Houston area all-star game. Glaspie was also a star quarterback on the Tiger football team twice earning all-district.

After graduating from Conroe in 2005, Glaspie signed to play basketball with Frank Phillips College. He obtained his degree from The University of Houston in 2014. Glaspie has experience coaching a variety of ages. He coached at Klein for two years, Montgomery for three and at Yes Prep for a year.

Anderson-Shiro Board of Trustees approved the hire May 8, and also the hiring of his assistant, Robert Weber. “This is a dream come true for me,” said Glaspie.

Anderson was right down the road, and Glaspie has friends who told him it was a good job. He’s heard about the Owls rich tradition in basketball and said they have a great Little Dribbler’s program. “It’s got the small-town feel, I love that,” said Glaspie as he compared similarities of Anderson to Montgomery. He said this is the type of community he wants to be a part of.

He’s always pursued a head coaching position. “It’d be hard to do this job without her support,” Glaspie said about his wife Maggie. He said coaching requires a lot of hours and during the season you’re likely to spend more time at school than at home. He’s grateful his wife supports his vision. “She has backed me 1000% on my journey of becoming a head coach,” he said.

While Glaspie has not worked with his new assistant coach, he is looking forward to coaching with him. The two have met and are currently working together during basketball camp. He said Weber has a lot of experience including being a head coach in Kansas. Glaspie said Weber is a positive for Anderson and he likes what he brings to the team. “He is going to bring some youthful energy to the basketball program,” said Glaspie.

Glaspie will also assist with the Owl football program.