Philip Klett will transition from girls’ to boys’ basketball at Center Point-Urbana

CENTER POINT — Philip Klett is leaving the girls’ basketball program at Center Point-Urbana, but he won’t be going far.

Across the hall, basically.

Klett, who coached the Stormin’ Pointers to a Class 3A state championship in 2019, has been selected as the CPU boys’ coach, pending board approval.

“Any other year, I probably wouldn’t. But right now, the timing is perfect,” said Klett, 47.

Klett’s son, Grady, will be a sophomore at CPU next season.

“I’m excited,” Klett said. “It’s a mix of emotions. It was a difficult conversation with the girls, but I think they understand.

“Change is good for everybody. This will be re-energizing, something new and fresh.”

Klett will succeed Mike Halac, who has been promoted to the role of athletics director.

A new girls’ coach as not been named.

In 17 years, Klett guided the Stormin’ Pointers to a 284-126 record. They advanced to the state tournament seven times in a nine-year period between 2014 and 2022, highlighted by that 2019 title run.

His 19-year career record is 319-140 overall.

The CPU girls were 15-9 last season; the boys were 14-8.

Comments: jeff.linder@thegazette.com