The Ottumwa Activities Department is proud to announce the return of Chris Gravett as Head Boys Basketball Coach at Ottumwa High School. Gravett, a 1996 graduate of OHS, was officially approved by the Ottumwa Board of Education in April and will once again take the reins of the Bulldogs basketball program.

Gravett previously led the Ottumwa Boys Basketball team from 2008 to 2013. During his first tenure, he brought leadership, energy, and a deep commitment to student-athletes, values he says remain just as strong today. After stepping away to spend more time with his young family, Gravett is ready to return to the sidelines and continue building a competitive and character-driven program.

“I am super excited to lead this program,” said Gravett. “There are a lot of new and exciting things happening in Ottumwa, and I am proud to be a part of it. Ottumwa has always been my home, and I’m ready for the challenges that lie ahead.”

Ottumwa Activities Director, Brandon Brooks, said the department is thrilled to welcome Gravett back. “Chris brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of Ottumwa’s athletic tradition. His passion for the game and commitment to student growth make him the right leader for our boys' basketball program.”

The Ottumwa Activities Department is excited to welcome a familiar face as the new Head Coach of the Ottumwa High School Girls Basketball Program. Kyle Creamer will bring a wealth of experience, Bulldog pride, and a deep commitment to student-athletes as he steps into this new leadership role.

A 2005 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Creamer was a standout member of the 2004 Boys Basketball State Tournament team. Following graduation, he went on to play collegiate basketball at William Penn University, competing from 2005 to 2009 and contributing to the Statesmen’s 2008 National Tournament appearance. He earned his degree from William Penn in 2009.

Since 2010, Creamer has served as an elementary physical education teacher with Ottumwa Community Schools while simultaneously building an extensive coaching resume across multiple sports. His basketball coaching experience includes roles as Boys Assistant Coach (2010–2017, 2018–2022), Head Boys Coach (2017–2018), and, most recently, Assistant Coach for the Girls Program (2022–2025).

In addition to basketball, he has coached boys' golf (Head Coach, 2016–present), freshman baseball (2010–2016), and junior high football (2012–2015).

“We are excited to have a leader who not only understands the game but also embodies what it means to be part of the Ottumwa community,” said Activities Director Brandon Brooks. “His commitment to our students, both in the classroom and on the court, makes him the right person to continue building our girls' basketball program.”

This announcement is pending board approval on August 11, 2025.