A closer look at Speedy Morris' career as he goes for his 1,000th win
In 50 years of coaching basketball at the high school and college levels, Speedy Morris has compiled a 999-425 record (.702 winning percentage).
The wait for the huge milestone, which was extended by last week's inclement weather, is likely about to end.
William "Speedy" Morris can notch his 1,000th career basketball victory (high school and college) when St. Joseph's Prep hosts Catholic League rival Lansdale Catholic at 3:30 p.m. Friday at 17th Street and Girard Avenue.
Morris has compiled 999 victories while coaching at the Prep, La Salle University (15 years with the men's squad, two with the women's team), Penn Charter, and Roman Catholic. In 33 years as a high school coach, he has posted a 718-206 record (.778 winning percentage).
The Prep is 9-1 overall and 2-0 in the Catholic League entering its game vs. Lansdale Catholic (5-3, 1-1).
The Kelly Fieldhouse doors will open at 2:30 p.m. Friday. The contest will be streamed at www.blogtalkradio.com/WSJP.
According to Prep director of communications Bill Avington, the expected spectators include former Princeton coach Pete Carril, ex-Temple coach John Chaney, Temple coach Fran Dunphy, St. Joseph's coach Phil Martelli, and former La Salle University standouts Lionel Simmons and Tim Legler.
Here is a closer look at Morris' legendary coaching career:
The Speedy Morris File
Total seasons coaching: 50.
All-time record: 999-425 (.702 winning percentage).
2017 Winner of the Morgan Wootten Award for lifetime achievement in coaching high school basketball.
The only high school coach in Pennsylvania to win 300 games at two schools.
Winningest coach in Catholic League history.
Has been inducted into 11 halls of fame, including the Big Five Hall of Fame.
St. Joseph’s Prep
Record in 17 seasons: 330-110 (.750).
Winningest coach in school history.
Won Catholic League titles in 2003 and 2004.
PIAA Class 4A state semifinalist in 2013.
La Salle University men’s team
Record in 15 seasons: 238-202 (.589).
Most wins in school history.
Four NCAA tournament appearances.
Two NIT tournament appearances.
Four league championships.
La Salle University women’s team
Record in two seasons: 43-17 (.717).
One NCAA Tournament appearance.
One league title.
Penn Charter
Record in two seasons: 41-14 (.745).
One Inter-Ac League championship.
Roman Catholic
Record in 14 seasons: 347-82 (.809).
Winningest coach in school history.
Won six Catholic League titles.