Harris happy to be newest member of Rams’ staff

KINGSTON, RHODE ISLAND – Earlier this afternoon, the University of Rhode Island issued a press release that former NC State assistant Larry Harris is the newest member of Jim Baron’s coaching staff at Rhody, joining Pat Clarke and Preston Murphy.  Chris DiSano of College Chalktalk and Cox Sports caught up with Harris to get his thoughts about the new gig at URI:

CD: What made the University of Rhode Island a good fit for you?

Harris:  Jim Baron.  He and I have known eachother for 30 years.  He’s a hard worker day-in and day-out and that’s the type of guy I want to be around and environment I want to be a part of.

CD: What will you bring that can complement this staff?

Harris: Experience.  I’ve been around this game for 27 years and that’s why Jim brought me up here.  I’m confident that I have a great understanding of how to deal with kids and help them maximize potential, and I’m anxious to help Jim and the staff in any way I can.

CD: You began your coaching career at Duquesne and now find yourself back in the A-10.  What is your opinion of the league?

Harris: I have always had a great opinion of the A-10.  When I was at Duquesne, Temple was the No. 1 team in the country, West Virginia (then a member) was strong, and Rhode Island had some great teams back then too.  That’s continued through the years with the league boasting some outstanding programs.  My opinion and expectations of what this league brings to the table have always been very high.

CD: What is the most important lesson you’ve learned throughout your time in coaching?

Harris: That kids have changed.  Their way of thinking has changed.  Getting them to perform at a high level has changed.  But I think I’ve been able to have them believe in and trust me as an individual — and that’s where it begins.  They know I will do everything I can to help them reach their goals.

CD: What’s been the best moment in your coaching career to date?

Harris: Getting up here with Jimmy.  The more I’ve been up here in this state and been around these guys, the more I know I made a great decision in coming up here to Rhode Island.  And as far as the state itself is concerned, it’s a beautiful place.

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