FREEPORT — Cougar Basketball this week announced the addition of Chris Daleo as the new Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach. Daleo, a Rockford native with over 30 years of international, collegiate and professional coaching experience, joins head coach Erik Walton in leading the Cougars into the upcoming NJCAA Division I season.

Daleo brings a remarkable resume of success to Highland. He has coached championship teams at nearly every level, from the Rockford Lightning (CBA) to professional clubs in Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia. He served as the only coach in Thailand’s history to win silver medals with both the Men’s and Women’s National Teams. Throughout his career, Daleo has mentored countless players who went on to compete at the highest levels of basketball.

“I’m very happy to join the Cougar staff,” said Daleo. “Highland Basketball has a deep and rich tradition of success and I hope to play a part in the continuation of that tradition. Whatever Coach Walton needs, I will gladly assist. Thirty years of winning basketball all over the world puts me in a unique position to help these student-athletes achieve their goals.”

Head Coach Erik Walton is welcoming Daleo with open arms. 

“Chris brings a lot of valuable experiences to the Cougars this season, from coaching professionally overseas to leading teams here in the United States. I can’t help but be a sponge soaking up all the information he has to share. From day one, Chris has hit the ground running with the players and myself. You don’t often see an assistant coach at the JUCO level with this kind of experience. It’s an honor to have him on our staff,” said Walton.

The timing couldn’t be better for Cougar fans. With six returning sophomores — Walter Hill Jr., Mohammed Bello Suleiman, Kevin Meralus, Matan Tagaya, Jahiem Ciego, and Omar Ndiaye — the Cougars bring both experience and depth to the 2025-26 season.

“With six returning players, we’ve got a solid foundation to build on,” said Walton. “Their experience and chemistry will be huge for us this season.”

Cougar Basketball tips off at home on Monday, Nov. 3 at 7 p.m. against Clarke University JV. Fans are encouraged to pack the stands and show their Cougar pride as the team brings their best to the Cougar Den.