Local coaches, ex-players, friends and family gathered at the Radisson Hotel Monday to welcome Sacramento State’s new men’s basketball coach Brian Katz to the campus community.

Katz, who was introduced to the crowd by Sac State President Alexander Gonzalez, said he was overwhelmed by the amount of support.

“Excited would not explain how I feel right now,” Katz said.

More than 100 people showed up to meet the coach, but Katz stressed that he shouldn’t be considered the center of attention.

“This is not about me tonight, this is about the community,” Katz said.

Addressing the crowd briefly, Katz touched on the gym situation, emphasized the importance of education and talked about realistic goals.

“Winning is a big deal, but I’m asking you to be patient,” Katz said. “It’s a tall order, but it’s something I’m willing to face.”

Director of Athletics Terry Wanless said that Katz’s strong local connections helped differentiate him from other candidates.

“He best fit the model I was looking for in terms of recruiting, coaching and, judging from tonight, in terms of ability to connect with the Sacramento community,” Wanless said.

Max Miller, a former football coach for Rancho Cordova, was one member of the Sacramento community who came out to support Katz.

Miller, who has known Katz since he was in high school, said he followed Katz’s coaching career with interest and called him a great recruit for the university.

“He’s a player’s coach,” Miller said. “He’s hard working and the kids are going to love him.”

Paul Rios can be reached at [email protected].