(Jason Gardner via IUPUI)

Former McDonald's All-American and 2003 Naismith Player of Year, Jason Gardner is taking over as North Central's head basketball coach. He led the Panthers to the 1999 4A state title as a senior. Now, Gardner gets a chance to lead North Central back to those heights as a coach.

Gardner replaces Brian Hahn. Before resigning in June, Hahn spent two years at the helm of North Central. He took over the Panthers after Doug Mitchell retired. North Central isn't used to this turnover as Mitchell spent 25 years in charge of the program.

Gardner played for Mitchell prior to his collegiate and professional career. After his playing career, Gardner had stops at Loyola and Memphis before being named the IUPUI head coach. The Jagurs were 16-17 in his final year as head coach. He resigned at IUPUI after being arrested for driving while intoxicated. 

In his first season at North Central, he will have a star - Leland Walker - to work with. As a sophomore, Walker averaged 20 points per game for a 12-10 North Central team. There are similarities between Walker and Gardner - undersized, explosive guards that can score from anywhere on the floor. Gardner should be a great mentor for Walker as the youngster tries to reach the levels that Gardner did.

Jason is an excellent man that made a mistake and is working towards rebuilding his reputation. This should be a great situation for both parties.