Scott Morrison – Assistant NBA Coach, Utah Jazz
Scott Morrison, now an Assistant Coach for the Utah Jazz, has made significant strides not only in the world of basketball but also in raising awareness for autism. Born and raised in Morell, Prince Edward Island, Scott’s early years were marked by his passion for basketball, which he pursued at Morell High School and continued at the University of Prince Edward Island, where he played collegiate basketball and earned his degree.
Scott began his coaching career with the Dalhousie University Women’s basketball team before becoming the Head Coach of Lakehead University’s Men’s Basketball team. During his decade-long tenure, he led the team to win the Ontario Championship in 2011 and achieve a National Silver Medal in 2013.
His success in university coaching led him to a professional career, starting with the Maine Red Claws in the NBA G League. His excellent performance earned him the G League Coach of the Year award for the 2014-2015 season. This accolade caught the attention of the Boston Celtics, where he served as an Assistant Coach from 2017 to 2021. He then moved to Australia to coach the Perth Wildcats for the 2021-2022 season before returning to the United States to lead the Salt Lake City Stars for the 2022-2023 season. Since 2023, Scott has been an Assistant Coach for the Utah Jazz.
While Scott’s professional accomplishments are noteworthy, his commitment to autism awareness is a significant aspect of his life. Scott has been actively involved with Canada Basketball National Teams since 2012, but it was a personal experience that intensified his advocacy. In June 2022, his son Max was diagnosed with autism. This diagnosis profoundly impacted Scott and his family, leading to the creation of the “To the Max” Foundation in 2024. Founded by Scott and his wife Susanne (Canvin) of Charlottetown, the foundation aims to support families and children affected by autism, promoting awareness and providing resources to those in need.
Scott and Susanne have two children: Max, who will turn five on October 31, 2024, and Shaylen, who will be three on September 2, 2024. Their journey with Max has fueled their passion for autism advocacy, dedicating their efforts to creating a supportive and informed community.
Scott Morrison’s journey from Morell, PEI, to the NBA is a testament to his dedication both on and off the court. His professional success is paralleled by his heartfelt commitment to autism awareness, making a meaningful impact on the lives of many families.
Keynote Description
Join Scott Morrison, Assistant Coach for the Utah Jazz and passionate autism advocate, for an inspiring keynote address that delves into his personal journey as a parent navigating the complexities of autism across three countries.
In this heartfelt and informative session, Scott will share his family’s story, beginning with the early realization that there was something different about his son Max. He will recount the challenges and breakthroughs experienced as they sought a diagnosis, moving from Canada to the United States, and eventually to Australia, highlighting the differences in medical systems and support networks across these countries.
Scott will provide an in-depth look at the various therapies and interventions they explored, from speech and occupational therapies to more specialized programs. He will discuss how certain therapies made significant positive impacts on Max’s development, while also candidly addressing those that fell short of providing the support they needed.
The keynote will also cover the emotional and logistical hurdles faced by the Morrison family, offering insights into navigating these obstacles with resilience and hope. Scott’s experiences will shed light on the importance of early intervention, the role of community and professional support, and the ongoing journey of learning and adaptation.
As a pivotal part of his address, Scott will discuss the founding of the “To the Max” Foundation in 2024. He will share the mission and vision behind the foundation, aiming to support other families and children affected by autism, providing resources, and promoting awareness. Additionally, Scott will introduce the innovative sneaker campaign developed to raise funds and spread autism awareness. This campaign not only symbolizes the journey walked by families dealing with autism but also represents a creative and impactful way to engage the community and generate support.
Scott Morrison’s keynote is a blend of personal narrative and practical advice, designed to inform, motivate, and inspire. It is a must-attend session for parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in understanding and supporting the autism community.