Saginaw, MI — The Saginaw Soul, the newest addition to the Basketball Super League (BSL), is proud to announce the hiring of Isiah “Zeke” Thomas as the franchise’s inaugural Head Coach. A respected leader in both sports and community advocacy, Thomas brings a professional experience and a deep legacy to a city ready for its basketball resurgence.
Coach Zeke Thomas steps into this role with a clear vision: to build a high-character, high-performance team that reflects the resilience, pride, and passion of the Great Lakes Bay Region. His appointment represents a commitment to excellence, mentorship, and a fresh approach to player development that is as much about the person as it is the athlete.
“It’s an incredible honor to lead the Saginaw Soul in its first season,” said Thomas. “This is a city with rich roots and real heart. We’re not just creating a team — we’re building a culture of respect, opportunity, and unity. I’m here to listen, to lead, and to elevate those around me.”
A former Division I athlete, artist, and social advocate, Zeke Thomas brings a multidimensional perspective to the coaching role. Known for his commitment to mental health awareness and youth empowerment, he has built a career around authenticity, resilience, and transformation — values that align perfectly with the Soul’s mission on and off the court.
Basketball Super League President David Magley expressed his excitement about Zeke’s leadership:
“Zeke Thomas is a dynamic and grounded leader who understands what it means to serve a community through sport. His personal integrity, coupled with his basketball pedigree, will help shape the Soul into something truly special.”
Coach Thomas is already hard at work shaping the foundation of the franchise, starting with open tryouts on May 10 at the Center Courts Recreational Facility in Saginaw. Training camp is scheduled to begin in the fall, with the Soul’s inaugural BSL season tipping off in November 2025.
With Zeke at the helm, the Saginaw Soul is poised to become more than just a team — it will be a beacon for the city, a home for rising talent, and a force for positive impact in the region.
“I want the young people in Saginaw to look at this team and see possibility — not just in basketball, but in life,” said Thomas. “This is for all of us.”
About the Saginaw Soul
The Saginaw Soul is a professional basketball franchise in the Basketball Super League, launching its inaugural season in 2025. Focused on competitive excellence and community connection, the Soul aims to uplift the Great Lakes Bay Region through sport, service, and spirit.