Passing of former Mountie coach/student-athlete, Criss Freeman

WALNUT, Calif. - It is with heartfelt sadness that the Mt. SAC Athletics Department announces the passing of former Mt. SAC student-athlete and longtime men’s basketball coach, Criss Freeman.  The much admired and affable coach passed away suddenly, on Monday night (08/14/17), at the age of 45. 

“He was a great friend to everybody.  He was one the nicest, kindest, loyal and most humble individuals I know,” replied Mt. SAC Women’s Basketball Head Coach, Brian Crichlow.  “An all-around great guy… liked by everyone.”

A 1989 L.A. Times Boys Basketball San Gabriel Valley All-Star Honorable Mention out of Baldwin Park High School, Freeman attended Mt. SAC from 1990 through 1992, where he earned All-South Coast Conference Men’s Basketball honors.  He transferred, on scholarship, to the University of Alaska-Fairbanks, where he earned all-conference honors during his senior season.  He continued his career, playing professionally in Mexico, Australia and in the Philippines.

Freeman was an integral part of the Mt. SAC Men’s Basketball Staff for over 15 seasons, 3 of which he served as Interim Head Coach.   As interim head coach, during the 2011-2012 season, he led the Mounties to a perfect 13-0 conference record and was named the South Coast Conference North Division Coach of the Year.  He also helped lead Mt. SAC to the 2013 CCCAA State Championship (Mt. SAC’s first men’s basketball state title) as an assistant coach.

Freeman also coached at various other institutions and organizations including Costa Mesa High School, Pasadena City College, Cerritos College, Fila Summer Pro League and Drew Summer Pro League. 

Freeman is survived by his daughter Lauryn (5) and son Landon (3). 

Funeral services are pending.

Courtesy, Mt. San Antonio College Athletics; Special thanks to Robert Lewis (Pasadena City College Sports Information Director) and John Van Gaston (Cerritos College Sports Information Director) for their help with this release.