© Albany Shockwave Co-Owner Christopher Pike
© Shockwave Head Coach Al Smith who is also the uncle of Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith
For the first time in almost 20 years, professional basketball returns to Albany.
Albany City Commissioner Christopher Pike unveiling the logo for the Albany Shockwave who will begin play in the American Basketball Association this season.
Pike is a co-owner of the Shockwave who will play a 15 game home schedule at the Albany Civic Center.
Al Smith, uncle of Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith, will be the head coach for the Shockwave.
Al Smith played for the Albany Sharpshooters in the early 1990's and was the head coach for the South Georgia Blues.
Smith is looking to fill his roster with as many local players as possible in this developmental league.
The team believes they will find plenty of players and support in a city that loves the game of basketball.
Christopher Pike said. "When we have been out in the community talking to folks about the team, they have been very excited about it, very receptive. So just from that response we have gotten alone, we are going to have a good product and a successful team."
Al Smith said. "Coaching is one thing that I have always loved to do. Not a lot of opportunities have presented itself but when they did I stepped up to the challenge. Now I am looking forward to this one and it is going to be a great run."
The Shockwave expect to release their schedule in the next week or two.
Coach Smith has tryouts scheduled August 11 in Americus and August 18 in Tallahassee.
Copyright 2012 WALB. All rights reserved.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Worldnow and WALB, a Raycom Media Station. 
