Malnati ends ‘great run’ at New Trier

Rick Malnati, 167-91 with two state appearances at New Trier, says he needs a big challenge in coaching or business.
(Dan Luedert/Sun-Times News Group)

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Rick Malnati resigned from New Trier Friday, leaving as one of the state's most respected basketball coaches.

His legacy is secure. Fans across the state will never forget his 2001-02 team, which knocked off Shannon Brown and Dee Brown¹s Proviso East team in the supersectionals, earning the Trevian head coach a "genius" reputation.

He finishes with a career record of 167-91, including two appearances in the state tournament. The Trevians finished fourth in 2002.

"I just need to do something different," Malnati said. "I've had a great run. It's something I've been thinking about for a long time. I need a new challenge. I loved New Trier and all the kids I got to coach but it's a time to do something different."

Malnati didn't rule out the possibility of another coaching job.

"My best years of my life are still ahead of me," he said. "I would be open to coaching or to be in business. I would like to be on a team, maybe as an assistant coach, and use my leadership skills in a different way. I do not have a job when I leave New Trier. But I would look into any job that is a big challenge."

Malnati graduated from New Trier West in 1977 and played college basketball at Bradley for coach Dick Versace.

After 15 years working in the family (pizza) business, Malnati returned to New Trier as an assistant and took over from Mel Sheets as head coach five years later.

"New Trier took a risk 12 years ago hiring me as the head coach with no prior head coaching experience, and I thank them for the opportunity," Malnati said.

"The most satisfying  moments for me have been to watch boys grow into men while they are on my teams and then continue in relationships with them long after they have left high school."

Malnati developed a friendship with Farragut coach Wolf Nelson, which led to the Trevians facing the Public League powerhouse Admirals every season.

"I've respected him since Day 1," Nelson said. "Rick has always been a stand up guy and one of the better coaches. Malnati and I are like brothers."

Contributing: Steve Tucker, Taylor Bell