Welcome to "River Eagle Broadcasting Network"

Humble beginnings, lasting impact: Raymond Wilson Jr., or "Speed" as he was known, left an undeniable mark on basketball. Born in 1932, Wilson's passion for the game began on the courts of Kingston Avenue. After high school, he went on to play for Boston University, forming lifelong friendships with teammates Jack Leaman and Pete Broaca.

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Teaching the game, shaping futures:  Wilson's career took him from coaching special education and basketball at Roosevelt High to becoming an assistant coach at UMass Amherst, reuniting him with Leaman and Broaca.  His calm demeanor and focus on player development earned him respect from both colleagues and athletes.

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The "Dr. J" Connection:  Wilson's greatest recruiting feat was Julius Erving, a future Hall of Famer.  Erving thrived under Wilson's guidance at Roosevelt High and ultimately chose UMass thanks to Wilson's influence.

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A Coaching Trio and a Golden Era:  Together, Wilson, Leaman, and Broaca formed a powerhouse coaching team.  Their contrasting styles complemented each other perfectly, leading UMass to unprecedented success.  They fostered a family atmosphere within the program, with players gathering at the Wilson's home for holidays.

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Leading the Charge:  When Leaman stepped down, Wilson became head coach.  Despite facing a tougher conference and limited resources, he remained true to his coaching philosophy.

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A Legacy of Kindness:  Though his time as head coach was short-lived, Wilson's impact on UMass and the lives of his players is undeniable.  He continued his friendship with Erving after leaving coaching and remained a loyal supporter of the UMass program.

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Ray "Speed" Wilson was more than just a coach; he was a mentor, a friend, and a man who left the game better than he found it.