UAB Coaching Staff UAB

Head Coach Mike Davis

y moving to the AtlanticThird Season 10 Conference At UAB • Ninth Season As • 19thshire Season twice (1991, Overall 1994); James Madison twice Bfor the 1997 season, ’s (1994, 1995), William & Mary twice (1993- nine-year membership of the Yankee Conference 1996) andike Davis Richmond enters (1987) his third once.w season Hamp at the- and the conference’s 50-year football legacy came shireM andhelm the ofUniversity the UAB of men’sRhode basketball Island), and pro a- to a close. Under the direction of head coach gram.Mid-Atlantic Davis, Division who was (University hired as the of , program’s , Villanova compiled a lifetime mark fourthJames Madison head coach University, on April Northeastern 7, 2006, replaced Uni- of 38-31 in Yankee Conference contests. During formerversity, University head coach of MikeRichmond, Anderson, VILLANOVA who left their Yankee Conference history, the Wildcats UABUNIVERSITY to become andthe headthe College coach at of the William University and shared the league championship twice, 1991 ofMary). Missouri. Also, each individual school had to play and 1989, finished second on three occasions, in eachDavis team is innow its 38-27own division, (.585) overall as well and as 19-13three 1996, 1992 and 1990, and third once in 1988. (.594)teams infrom Conference the other USA division play duringeach year his previfor a- The addition of three college football pro- total of eight ousleague two contests. seasons in Birmingham. grams in 1993 (James Madison, Northeastern The Yankee ConferenceDavis’ secondoriginally season developed was one and William and Mary) made the Yankee from the New Englandfor theCollege record Conferencebooks as he ledof Conference the largest NCAA Division I-AA Intercollegiate Athletics.the BlazersWhen Northeasternto an overall conference, with 12 total members. Each one University offered its record resignation of 23-11 fromoverall thatand of the 12 schools competed for the confer- group, the Land Granta institutions 12-4 mark in appointed Conference a ence title, playing an eight-game league slate. committee to form a newUSA league. play in On 2007-08. December The For scheduling purposes only, the league was 8, 1945, that committeeleague recommended record earned an ath the- divided into a Division ( letic conference formedBlazers by the a six runner-up New England finish University, University of , Uni- Land Grant colleges,in the namely; C-USA the regular University season versity of , University of Massachusetts, of Connecticut, Universitystandings. of Maine, Massa- University of and the Univer- chusetts State College The (now 23 the victories University were of sity of ), and a Mid-Atlantic Divi- Massachusetts), Rhode Islandthe third-most State College wins sion (, James Madison (now the University of Rhode Island),in a seasonthe Uni in- University, , University iate Athletics. When Northeastern Uni- versity of New Hampshire and the Universityprogram of Richmond, VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY versity offered its resignation from of Vermont. his- and the College of William and Mary). Also, that group, the Land Grant institutions On August 24, 1946, representatives from each individual school had to play each team the schools met. A preamble and code of the in its own division, as well as three teams from first league championships were conducted Yankee Conference were adopted, and became the other division each year for a total of eight in the 1947-48 season. effective on December 3, 1946. The On August league contests. In 1978, with the creation by the NCAA of 24, 1946, representatives from the schools met. The Yankee Conference originally developed Division I-AA Football, the Yankee Conference A preamble and code of the Yankee Conference from the New England College Conference of disbanded in all sports with the exception of were adopted, and became effective on Decem- Intercollegiate Athletics. When Northeastern football. Vermont, which had dropped football ber 3, 1946. The first league championships University offered its resignation from that in 1974, dropped out of the league. As a result, were conducted in the 1947-48 season. group, the Land Grant institutions appointed a the Yankee Conference, after already adding first league championships were conducted committee to form a new league. On December in 1973, was six members in the 1947-48 season. 8, 1945, that committee recommended an ath- strong. In 1978, with the creation by the NCAA of letic conference formed by the six New England In 1984, the University of Delaware and Division I-AA Football, the Yankee Conference Land Grant colleges, namely; the University joined the league, and disbanded in all sports with the exception of of Connecticut, , Massa- became eligible for the league title in 1986, football. Vermont, which had dropped football chusetts State College (now the University of while the Villanova University Wildcats came in 1974, dropped out of the league. As a result, Massachusetts), Rhode Island State College on board in 1985. They became eligible for the the Yankee Conference, after already adding (now the University of Rhode Island), the Uni- league title in 1988. Boston University in 1973, was six members versity of New Hampshire and the University The Yankee Conference was one of the strong. of Vermont. original conferences to receive an automatic bid In 1984, the University of Delaware and On August 24, 1946, representatives from to the NCAA Division I-AA Playoffs in 1978. University of Richmond joined the league, and the schools met. A preamble and code of the Since the birth of NCAA Division I-AA, Bos- became eligible for the league title in 1986, Yankee Conference were adopted, and became ton University went to the playoffs five times while the Villanova University Wildcats came effective on December 3, 1946. The On August (1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1994); Rhode Island on board in 1985. They became eligible for the 24, 1946, representatives from the schools met. three times (1981, 1984, 1985); Massachusetts league title in 1988. A preamble and code of the Yankee Conference three times (1978, 1988, 1990); Delaware The Yankee Conference was one of the were adopted, and became effective on Decem- six times (1986, 1988, 1991, 1992, 1995, original conferences to receive an automatic bid ber 3, 1946. The first league championships 1996); Villanova four times (1989, 1991, 1992, to the NCAA Division I-AA Playoffs in 1978. were conducted in the 1947-48 season. 1996); Maine twice (1987, 1989); New Hamp- Since the birth of NCAA Division I-AA, Bos-

32 UAB Basketball

Head Coach Mike Davis

tory, whiley moving UAB’s to 12 the league Atlantic wins 10 tied Conference for the Island), and a Mid-Atlantic Division (University The Davis File Bmost conferencefor the 1997 victories season, in Villanova school history. University’s Addi- of Delaware, , North- nine-yeartionally, the membership Blazers’ stellar of the 4-1 Yankee home Conferencerecord tied Birthdate: September 15,eastern 1960 University, University of Richmond, VIL- andfor the the second-best conference’s home 50-year mark football since legacyUAB began came LANOVA UNIVERSITY and the College of toplaying a close. at Bartow Under Arena. the direction of head coach Family: Wife: Tamilya; Daughter:William andLateesha, Mary). 28; Also, each individual school AndyUnder Talley, Davis’ Villanova tutelage, compiled UAB earneda lifetime its 22ndmark Sons: Michael Jr., 23, Antoine,had to 9 play each team in its own division, as well ofpostseason 38-31 in appearanceYankee Conference by reaching contests. the During second as three teams from the other division each year theirround Yankeeof the 2008 Conference National history, Invitation the WildcatsTourna- Education: Thomas Edisonfor College,a total of 2000; eight league contests. sharedment. The the Blazers league have championship now achieved twice, 13 NCAA 1991 B.A. - Telecommunications The Yankee Conference originally developed and nine1989, NIT finished appearances second onin schoolthree occasions,history. in from the New England College Conference of 1996,Davis 1992 also and orchestrated 1990, and third one once of the in 1988. greatest Intercollegiate Athletics. When Northeastern turnaroundsThe addition in UAB of three lore, by college improving football on pro the- University offered its resignation from that group, grams15 wins in in 1993 2006-07 (James to Madison, 23 victories Northeastern this year. the Land Grant institutions appointed a commit- andThe Williamplus-eight and win Mary) differential made thematched Yankee the Con best- tee to form a new league. On December 8, 1945, ferenceimprovement the largest in back-to-back NCAA Division seasons I-AA in confer school- Coaching Experience that committee recommended an athletic confer- ence,history. with Following 12 total members. winning onlyEach one 13 gamesof the 12 in 2006- UAB ence formed by the six New EnglandHead Land Coach Grant schools2001-02, competed then-first-year for the head conference coach Miketitle, playingAnder- 2000-06 Indiana Universitycolleges, namely; the University ofHead Connecticut, Coach anson eight-game captured 21 league victories slate. in 2002-03.For scheduling pur- 1997-2000 Indiana UniversityUniversity of Maine, MassachusettsAssistant State Coach College posesFollowing only, the a tough league first was campaign divided intoon the a Newjob, 1995-97 University of(now Alabama the University of Massachusetts),Assistant Coach Rhode Englandfinishing Divisionwith a 15-16 (Boston overall University, record, Davis University knew 1994-95 Univerity ofIsland Chicago State College (now theAssistant University Coach of ofwhat Connecticut, he needed to University do to turn of things Maine, around. University Davis 1990-94 Wichita FallsRhode Island), the University ofAssistant New Hampshire Coach ofand Massachusetts, his staff logged University a lot of miles of andNew long Hampshire hours to 1989-90 Miles Collegeand the .Assistant Coach andput togetherthe University what manyof Rhode consider Island), one andof the a Mid- best On August 24, 1946, representatives from the Atlanticrecruiting Division classes in (University program history. of Delaware, The Blazers’ James Postseason Experience schools met. A preamble and code of the Yankee Madison2007-08 class University, was ranked Northeastern among the University, top 25 in 2008 NIT Conference were adopted, and became effectiveUAB Universitythe nation by of many Richmond, recruiting VILLANOVA service websites UNI and- iate2006 Athletics. NCAA Tournament When Northeastern Uni- on December 3, 1946. The On August Indiana24, 1946, VERSITYmagazines, andand thewas College picked ofas Williamhigh as No. and 9 Mary). in the versity2005 NIT offered its resignation from representatives from the schools met. AIndiana preamble Also,nation eachaccording individual to CollegeHoopsUpdate.com. school had to play each that2003 group, NCAA Tournamentthe Land Grant institutions and code of the Yankee Conference wereIndiana adopted, teamThe in Fayette,its own Ala.,division, native as camewell asto threeUAB teamsfrom 2002 NCAA Final Four and became effective on December 3, 1946.Indiana The fromIndiana the University, other division where each he served year for as athe total head of 2001In 1978, NCAA with Tournament the creation by the NCAA of first league championships were conductedIndiana in the Division I-AA Football, the Yankee Conference 1947-48 season. eightcoach league of the contests. Indiana Hoosiers from 2000-06. 2000 NCAA Tournament Indiana WhileThe there, Yankee he Conference compiled a originally 115-79 record. developed His disbanded in all sports with the exception of first league championships were conducted in 1999 NCAA Tournament Indiana fromteams the typically New England have played College their Conference best basket of- football. Vermont, which had dropped football in the 1947-48 season. 1998 NCAA Tournament Indiana Intercollegiateball during the Athletics.postseason, When evidenced Northeastern by Davis’ 1974, dropped out of the league. As a result, the In 1978, with the creation by the NCAA of 1997 NCAA Tournament Indiana University21-12 record offered in the its month resignation of March from andthat hisgroup, 7-4 Yankee Conference, after already adding Boston Division I-AA Football, the Yankee Conference 1996 NIT Final Four Alabama theNCAA Land Tournament Grant institutions mark, including appointed a arun commit to the- University in 1973, was six members strong. disbanded in all sports with the exception of teenational to form championship a new league. game On inDecember 2002. 8, 1945, In 1984, the University of Delaware and football. Vermont, which had dropped football in Playing Experience thatDavis committee hopes recommendedto make the same an athletictype of conferimpact- University of Richmond joined the league, and 1974, dropped out of the league. As a result, the enceat UAB formed that heby didthe atsix IU, New including England the Land following Grant became1980-83 eligible for the league title in 1986, while Yankee Conference, after already addingAlabama Boston colleges,accomplishments: namely; the University of Connecticut, the1983 Villanova University Wildcats came on board University in 1973, was six membersNBA strong. Draft University• Davis ofis Maine,the first Massachusetts coach in Indiana State history College to in 1985. They became eligible for the league title In 1984, theSecond University Round Pick of Delaware(Milwaukee) and (nowbegin his the tenure University with ofthree Massachusetts), straight 20-plus Rhode win in 1988.1983-85 University of Richmond joinedSwitzerland/Italy the league, and Islandseasons State and three College straight (now NCAA the University Tournament of 1988-89The Yankee Conference was one of the origi- became eligible for the leagueTopeka title Sizzlers in 1986, (CBA) while Rhodeappearances. Island), the University of New Hampshire nal conferences to receive an automatic bid to the the Villanova University Wildcats came on board and• the Davis University led his ofteam Vermont. to a postseason appear- NCAAHonors Division I-AA Playoffs in 1978. Since the in 1985. They became eligible for the league title anceOn in Augustfive of 24,his six1946, years representatives at IU, including from four the birth2002 of NCAA Division I-AA, Boston University in 1988.National Coach of the Year (Charlotte Observer) schoolsNCAA Tournaments.met. A preamble and code of the Yankee went to the playoffs five times (1980, 1982, 1983, The Yankee Conference was one of the origi- Conference• Davis averaged were adopted, 19.2 wins and per became season effectiveover his ready1984, for 1994); big time Rhode basketball Island on three a national times (1981, level. nal Namedconferences the to 25th receive head an coach automatic in Indiana bid to histhe- onsix-year December Indiana 3, coaching1946. The career. On August 24, 1946, That’s1984, 1985);exactly what Massachusetts he wants to three build times at UAB. (1978, NCAAtory on DivisionSept. 12, I-AA 2000, Playoffs Davis provedin 1978. to Since have the representatives• Under Davis’ from tutelage, the schools Indiana met. defeatedA preamble 24 1988,“I told 1990); my players Delaware that six I’m times excited (1986, to play 1988, and birthmost ofsuccessful NCAA Divisionfirst season I-AA, of anyBoston of his University 24 pre- andranked code opponents. of the Yankee Conference were adopted, will1991, play 1992, anyone 1995, at anytime, 1996); anywhere,” Villanova fourDavis times said. wentdecessors. to the His playoffs 21 wins five weretimes four (1980, more 1982, than 1983, any and• becameDavis coached effective three on December NBA Draft 3, picks.1946. The “Whoever(1989, 1991, wants 1992, to play 1996); us home-and-home, Maine twice (1987, we 1984,other first-year 1994); RhodeIU head Island coach. three His times success (1981, was firstUnder league Davis, championships the Hoosiers were enjoyed conducted consider in the- will1989); do it. New I feel Hampshirelike that is an twiceopportunity (1991, to 1994);fill the 1984,not limited 1985); to Massachusettsjust IU, as his three21 victories times ranked (1978, 1947-48able success, season. including a trip to the 2002 national seatsJames and Madison get our twiceplayers (1994, ready 1995),for March. William I don’t & 1988,him second 1990); among Delaware first-year six timeshead coaches (1986, in 1988, the championshipfirst league gamechampionships against Maryland. were conducted Although in reallyMary caretwice about (1993-1996) winning 25 and games Richmond a year, but (1987) what 1991,country 1992, in 2000-01. 1995, 1996); Villanova four times theIU lost1947-48 the contest, season. 64-52, Davis proved he was isonce.w important Hampshire to me is and that the we Universityare competing.” of Rhode (1989,Davis, 1991, selected 1992, as the 1996); 2001-02 Maine National twice (1987,Coach

33 UAB Basketball

Head Coach Mike Davis

During his four seasons at Alabama, the Crim- Davis’ Career Head Coaching Record son Tide posted an 80-42 record and advanced to Indiana University two NIT and two NCAA Tournaments. He won Alabama’s Hustle Award all four of 2000-01 21-13 .618 NCAA First Round his seasons in Tuscaloosa and was named to the 2001-02 25-12 .676 NCAA Runner-Up ’s All-Defensive team his 2002-03 21-13 .618 NCAA Second Round senior year. 2003-04 14-15 .483 - Following his playing career at Alabama, Davis 2004-05 15-14 .517 NIT was a second-round selection of the Milwaukee 2005-06 19-12 .613 NCAA Second Round Bucks in the 1983 NBA Draft. He would spend the Totals 115-79 .593 next two seasons playing in Switzerland, where he was named to the league’s all-star team, and in Italy. UAB He played the 1988-89 season with the Topeka Siz- 2006-07 15-16 .484 - zlers of the Continental Basketball Association. 2007-08 23-11 .676 NIT The following season, Davis began his coaching Totals 38-27 .585 career as an assistant coach at Miles College in Bir- mingham, Ala. He stayed at Miles for the 1989-90 Career Totals season and then coached in Venezuela, directing 153-106 .591 Four NCAA Appearances the country’s national team for two summers as Two NIT Appearances well as professional teams in that country. Davis returned to the United States and the CBA of the Year by The Charlotte Observer, was one of the Tide after earning the state’s Mr. Basketball in 1990 and worked with the Wichita Falls Texans. just 14 of a total of 319 men’s basketball coaches honor and All-America status in 1979. The first season with the Texans proved to that season who guided a team that did not He was a standout for four seasons at Alabama be a championship one. After struggling with include a single senior. His team was the highest- and finished his career in the Top 25 on the a 16-22 record, the club won 16 of its final 18 ranked senior-less team, according to the RPI, and Crimson Tide’s all-time scoring list with 1,211 contests to finish with a 32-24 overall record. In just one of two to make the NCAA Tournament. points. In his first season, he played for the the conference playoffs, the Texans upset both The strong regular season and Big Ten Tour- legendary C.M. Newton and then spent his final division champions ––Tulsa (3-1) and Albany nament earned the Hoosiers a No. 20 national three years playing under another coaching leg- (4-2). The Texans then edged Quad Cities, 4-3, ranking and a No. 4 seed in the NCAA Tourna- end, Wimp Sanderson. He averaged 10.1 points in a dramatic Finals. ment, the highest by an Indiana team since 1993. per game for his career and ranks third all-time on The 1991-92 Texans posted a 28-28 overall Though new to the role of head coach, Davis the school’s steals list with 165. record and finished second in the Southern Divi- already had contributed significantly to the Indiana program. He spent the previous three seasons as an assistant coach with the Hoosiers. His successful recruitment of several of the country’s top prep play- ers earned him national recognition at Indiana. In addition to his recruiting success, he has been instrumental in the development of several players including A.J. Guyton, the Big Ten’s Most Valuable Player in 2000, Kirk Haston, a first- round NBA selection in 2001 and 2002 Big Ten MVP and consensus second-team All-American Jared Jeffries, who was the 11th overall pick of the 2002 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards. In Davis’ three seasons as an IU assistant, the Hoo- siers compiled a 63-32 overall record and advanced to the NCAA Tournament all three seasons. Davis came to Indiana after a two-year stint (1995-97) as an assistant coach under at the . The 1995- 96 Crimson Tide posted a 23-10 record and advanced to the NIT Final Four. Davis’ coaching tenure with Alabama marked his return to the Crimson Tide. The Fayette, Ala., native spent his collegiate-playing career with The Davis Family (L To R): Mike, Tamilya, Antoine And Mike, Jr.

34 UAB Basketball

Head Coach Mike Davis

What They’re Saying

“Mike Davis will be in a comfort zone being back in the state where he was Mr. Basketball as a high school sensation. His contacts from his playing days at Alabama and during his recruiting days at Indiana will play a vital role in helping the Blazers to battle for honors in Conference USA. He is a perfect choice to represent UAB.” - , ESPN

“It is hard to imagine a better fit than Mike Davis and UAB. Mike is extremely well-respected by his peers for his keen basketball intellect as well as his caring personality, and as an Alabama native he will have a unique comfort level. Mike emerged from a very difficult situation at Indi- ana with his reputation intact, especially for the classy way in which he handled its conclusion. Birmingham is going to love their new coach, but they will especially love the way his teams play. sion before losing in the second round of the I commend UAB for making a smart hire.” playoffs to Rapid City, S.D. In 1992-93, Davis - Seth Davis, CBS Sports/CSTV helped guide the Texans to a franchise-best 34-22 record and its first-ever Western Division title. “This is a great hire for UAB. Mike Davis did an extremely good job at Indiana under some The club finished the year with a 21-7 home- court record. During the 1993-94 season, the difficult circumstances. His teams were always very good defensively and were efficient in run- two guided the Texans to a second-place finish in ning many pro-type offensive sets. I expect Mike to have great success at UAB.” the Western Division and the club featured two - Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State University of the league’s top performers in guard Stephen Bardo, the CBA’s Defensive Player of the Year, and first team All-CBA selection Henry James. “I’ve always thought this was the perfect place for Mike. He’s now in his wheelhouse for In 1994, the Wichita franchise relocated to recruiting. He could recruit to Indiana but he’ll be in his comfort zone. I’d be shocked if Mike Chicago, and Davis moved with the team not only isn’t a big hit in Birmingham. He’s been a winner at Indiana and he’ll be one at UAB. The Blazers as an assistant coach, but also as a player. Despite not having played for five years, the then 35-year- were an NCAA team under Mike Anderson. I don’t see that changing under Mike Davis.’’ old Davis averaged 8.3 points, 3.3 rebounds and - , ESPN.com 2.6 assists per contest for the Rockers. He played in 56 games (35 starts) and was second on the team with 31.5 minutes played per “Mike Davis is a quality person. He was in a very difficult situation before in replacing one of outing. Davis shot 80 percent from the the top coaches of all-time, and I don’t think he gets the proper credit for what he accomplished line and finished fourth in the league’s Defensive under those circumstances. His teams are always well coached and compete, and I wish him well Player of the Year voting. The Rockers posted a 28-28 regular season mark and earned a trip to at UAB.” the conference finals. It was there they were swept - , Head Coach, University of Illinois by the Pittsburgh Pirhanas in three games. During his CBA coaching career, Davis “Different jobs are suited for different coaches and he is coming home to a place he knows, tutored several eventual NBA players such as Ennis Whatley, Derrick Phelps, Bardo, John and one in which he can be successful. This situation is the perfect opportunity for both him Lucas, Roy Tarpley, Fred Roberts, James, Elston and for UAB. The Blazers went out and got a coach who has been handed invaluable experience Turner, Cedric Ball, Walter Bond, David Wesley coaching at highest level of . That is something that, quite frankly, any other and Jaren Jackson. Davis was born September 15, 1960, in Fay- candidate they could have brought in would not have.” ette, Ala., and is married to the former Tamilya - Doug Gottlieb, ESPN Floyd. The couple has a nine-year-old son, Antoine. Davis is also the father of 23-year-old “Coach Davis was a tremendous mentor during my career. He really helped me with my son, Mike, Jr., who will be a senior on the UAB men’s basketball team, and a daughter Lateesha, confidence to handle any situation on the court.” 28. He earned a degree in telecommunications - Jared Jeffries, 2002 First Round Pick, Washington Wizards from Thomas Edison College.

35 UAB Basketball

Associate Head Coach Donnie Marsh

Third Season at UAB • 29th Season Overall The Marsh FIle

onnie Marsh enters his third Marsh coordinates the Blazers’ Born: March 21, 1956 Dseason at UAB as associate head effort on the defensive side of the ball. Family: Wife: LaRoyce; Daughter: Sydnee, 16; coach. Marsh, whose 29 years of col- Under his guidance, UAB’s defense Son: Tyler, 20 lege basketball coaching experience has made tremendous strides, as the Education: Franklin & Marshall College, 1979; include stops at Florida State, Vir- Blazers ranked in the top half in the B.S. - Education ginia Tech and head coach at Florida league in points allowed, International, spent two seasons with percentage defense and three-point Coaching Experience Davis at Indiana, prior to joining the field goal percentage defense. 2006- UAB, Associate Head Coach Blazer basketball program. With Marsh’s help, the UAB 2004-06 Indiana, Assistant Head Coach 2000-04 Florida International, Head Coach Marsh plays a big role with the men’s basketball team had one of 1999-00 Tech, Associate Head Coach men’s basketball program, covering everything its biggest turnarounds in school history. In his 1997-99 Virginia Tech, Assistant Coach from scheduling to helping run practice to order- first season, UAB went 15-16. However, the 1995-97 Florida State, Assistant Coach ing equipment. Blazers improved to 23-11 in Marsh’s second 1989-93 Trenton Statea (N.J.), Head Coach 1988-89 Elizabethtown (Pa.), Head Coach 1980-87 Franklin & Marshall, Assistant Coach

Postseason Experience 2008 NIT UAB 2006 NCAA Tournament Indiana 2005 NIT Indiana 1997 NIT Championship Game Florida State

Playing Experience 1979 NBA Draft Third Round Pick (Atlanta)

Honors Franklin & Marshall Hall of Fame (1984) Atlantic City HS Hall of Fame

season, which accounted for the third-highest single-season turnaround in UAB lore. In fact, the 23 victories last season were tied for the third most in program history, while the 12 Conference USA wins ties for the most wins by a UAB team since the league’s inception in 1995. Furthermore, the Blazers made it to the second round of the NIT, marking the 22nd postseason appearance in the 30-year history of the Blazer basketball program. Marsh, who is known as one of the top recruiters in the nation, made an immediate impact on the UAB basketball program during his first season in 2006-07. He was responsible for bringing several newcomers to Birmingham who helped make up the nation’s ninth-ranked class in 2007, according to CollegeHoopsUpdate.com. Additionally, the 2007 class was ranked among the nation’s top 25 of incoming class by almost every major recruiting service. Marsh came to UAB from Indiana where his presence was felt immediately. Prior to Marsh’s arrival, Indiana ranked eighth in league play in points allowed (67.6) and fifth in field goal per- centage defense (.433). Under Marsh’s direction,

36 UAB Basketball

Associate Head Coach Donnie Marsh

Virginia Tech after serving as an assistant coach at Florida State from 1995-97. Marsh helped the Seminoles to the 1997 National Invitation Tournament championship game before losing to Michigan. As the head coach at Trenton State (N.J.) College, now named College of New Jersey, from 1989-93, Marsh compiled a four-year record of 64-41. This was highlighted by a 22-6 record and NCAA Tournament berth in 1990. A 1979 graduate of Franklin & Marshall (Pa.) College with a bachelor’s degree in history and education, Marsh earned All-American honors and helped the Diplomats to a 27-5 record and NCAA Division III Final Four. The chose Marsh with their third round pick (52nd overall) in the 1979 NBA Draft. Marsh was selected one spot ahead of former Notre Dame center Bill Laimbeer, who was tabbed by the . After a brief professional playing stint, Marsh spent six years as associate director of admissions, assistant basketball coach and head baseball coach at Franklin & Marshall. For one year, Marsh was president of Players in Action, Inc., a firm that represents professional athletes. Marsh made his head coaching debut at Divi- sion III Elizabethtown (Pa.) College, where he compiled a 12-13 ledger in 1988-89 before mov- ing on to the College of New Jersey. Marsh and his wife, LaRoyce, have a son, Tyler (20), who is a member of the Birmingham-South- ern basketball team, and a daughter, Sydnee (16). the Hoosier defense improved considerably, ris- ing to fifth in scoring defense (63.6) and tied for third in field goal percentage defense (.420). Marsh arrived in Bloomington after spend- ing the previous four seasons as the head coach at Florida International. During his tenure in Miami, the Golden Panthers ranked among the leaders in total defense and offensive rebounding. Marsh also played a key role in the develop- ment of guard Carlos Arroyo. After his stellar FIU career ended in 2001, Arroyo became the fifth Puerto Rico native in history to play in the NBA when he debuted for the . Arroyo also spent one season with the before spending each of the last four seasons with the and Detroit Pistons, and is cur- rently with the . Arroyo also was a member of the Puerto Rico national team that particiated in the 2004 Summer Olympic Games at Athens, Greece. Prior to Florida International, Marsh served as an assistant (1997-99) and associate head coach (1999-00) at Virginia Tech. Marsh had gone to The Marsh Family: Sydnee, Donnie, Tyler, LaRoyce

37 UAB Basketball

Assistant Coach

First Season at UAB • 10th Season Overall The Flanigan FIle

es Flanigan, a former All- “I am very excited to have some- Born: May 28, 1975 W Southeastern Conference one of Wes’ caliber to join our staff,” Family: Wife: Katrina; Sons: Michael Lewis (15), performer at Auburn and a member said UAB head coach Mike Davis. Allen (7) and Collin (1) of the men’s basketball coaching “Wes is a quality coach and a great Education: Auburn, 1997; B.S. - Secondary Education staff at the University of Arkansas at recruiter who did a terrific job at Little Rock the past four years, was UALR. He is someone who is really Coaching Experience named assistant coach at UAB in respected by college coaches around 2008- UAB, Assistant Coach May of 2008. the nation and has a great feel for 2007-08 Arkansas Little Rock, His duties at UAB include help- the game.” Associate Head Coach ing the Blazers’ recruiting efforts, Flanigan served this past year at 2004-07 Arkansas Little Rock, Assistant Coach on-court coaching, conducting individual work- UALR as associate head coach/recruiting coordi- 2003-04 Arkansas Hawks AAU, Head Coach outs, and instructing the Blazers’ perimeter nator. The Trojans finished the 2007-08 season 1999-03 MW Mississippi CC, Assistant Coach players. with a 20-11 record and were the No. 2 seed at 1998-99 Auburn, Graduate Assistant

Playing Experience 1993-97 Auburn

Honors 1993 Arkansas HS Gatorade

Player of the Year 1996 All SEC 1997 Cliff Hare Award - Top Auburn Student-Athlete

the Sun Belt Conference Tournament. In all, Flanigan spent four seasons at UALR. “I am very excited to be a part of the UAB basketball program,” said Flanigan. “I have always followed the program from a distance and I am anxious to be a part of such a successful tradition. I am coming back to familiar territory having played at Auburn and I feel like I know the area pretty well. I had the chance to sit down with the staff to get to know them better. I’m excited to find my niche and help continue the success in any way I can.” A former All-SEC selection at Auburn, Flani- gan joined the Trojan staff in June of 2004 and has played a major role in the team’s success during his four seasons. In addition to his on- court contributions, Flanigan has served as the lead recruiter on some of UALR’s top signings, including NCAA rebounding champion Rashad Jones-Jennings. Flanigan, a Little Rock, Ark. native, joined the Trojans after five seasons as an assistant at Northwest Mississippi Community College. During his time at Northwest, Flanigan, who worked with both the men’s and women’s teams, helped lead the men’s squad to a record of 119-39 while the Lady Rangers compiled a mark of 80-51. The Northwest men’s program also won three

38 UAB Basketball

Assistant Coach Wes Flanigan

Flanigan earned All-SEC honors in 1996 as he averaged 13.4 points per game and 6.7 assists while being named the Tigers’ Most Valuable Player. Flanigan graduated from Auburn with a degree in health promotion and was given the Cliff Hare Award for being the university’s top student-ath- lete in 1997. He was also recognized twice with the Paul Lambert and Award for his leadership abilities, and receiving All-SEC honors following his junior year. He currently ranks No. 18 on the Auburn all- time scoring list with 1,228 points and is second on the Tigers’ career list for assists with 573. He finished his career with averages of 10.1 points and 4.8 assists. A prep standout at Parkview, Flanigan was named the 1992-93 Gatorade High School Player of the Year for the state of Arkansas following his senior season and earned Most Valuable Player honors in the state All-Star Game that year. Flanigan and his wife Katrina have three sons: Michael Lewis, 15, Allen, 7 and newborn Collin.

Region XXIII championships and earned three trips to the National Junior College Athletic Association National Championship tournament during Flanigan’s tenure. The Rangers also cap- tured two MACJC North Division titles and the state championship in 2001. Flanigan, the son of Little Rock Parkview High School head basketball coach Al Flanigan, also helped the Lady Rangers to five consecutive post-season tournaments. The women’s team played in four regional and five state tournaments as well. A graduate of Little Rock Parkview High School, Flanigan was a four-year letterman at Auburn from 1993 to 1997. He was team co- captain for three seasons and averaged 10.1 points, 4.8 assists and 2.4 rebounds during his college career. During his junior season with the Tigers, The Flanigan Family (L to R): Collin, Wes, Michael Lewis, Allen, Katrina

39 UAB Basketball

Assistant Coach Dusty May

Second Season at UAB • Eighth Season Overall The May FIle

usty May is in his second season ance. In addition, the Blazers tied Born: Dec. 30, 1976 Dwith the UAB men’s basketball the school record for Conference Family: Wife: Anna; Sons: Jack (6), Charlie (5), program as an assistant coach, join- USA victories, going 12-4 in league and Eli (2) ing the staff in April of 2007. May play and finishing second overall Education: Indiana, 2000; B.A. - History came to UAB from Murray State behind Memphis. where he was an assistant coach for “I’m extremely excited to be a Coaching Experience one season. part of a great tradition like UAB,” 2007- UAB, Assistant Coach May was a big part in helping May said. “Having worked under 2006-07 Murray State, Assistant Coach UAB to one of its best single-season coach Davis in the past allows me to 2005-06 Eastern Michigan, Assistant Coach turnarounds in program history. With understand his system and what he 2004-05 Indiana University, the help of May’s guidance, the Blazers improved expects out of his staff and players. I feel there is from their 15-16 record in 2006-07 to 23-11 something real special going on at UAB and I am Administrative Assistant in 2007-08 and a second round NIT appear- ecstatic to be a part of it.” 2002-04 Indiana University, Video Coordinator 2000-02 Southern California, Administrative Assistant

Postseason Experience 2008 NIT UAB 2003 NCAA Tournament Indiana 2002 NCAA Tournament USC 2001 NCAA Elite Eight USC 1999 NCAA Tournament Indiana 1998 NCAA Tournament Indiana 1997 NCAA Tournament Indiana 1996 NCAA Tournament Indiana

Playing Experience 1995-96 Oakland City University

May reunites with Davis, as he spent three seasons on the IU coaching staff. During his three years on the Indiana coaching staff, May helped recruit two of the nation’s top classes. His duties included recruiting, coordinating all on-campus recruiting, and serving as the team’s compliance liaison and director of camps. “I couldn’t be more excited to have Dusty join our staff,” Davis said. “Dusty will bring a new energy and is a terrific recruiter, teacher and motivator. When we worked together at Indiana for three seasons, I knew he had potential to be a great coach and we are lucky to have him on our staff.” While with the Racers, May helped lead the team to a second-place finish in the Ohio Valley Conference. May helped guide then-freshman Bruce Carter to Ohio Valley All-Conference Sec- ond Team and Newcomer Team in 2007. Prior to his stint at Murray State, May was a member of the Eastern Michigan staff from 2004- 05. While there, May helped lead Eastern Michi- gan to victories over California and Conference USA’s Tulsa. At EMU, May was responsible for scouting, recruiting, compliance, academics, sum-

40 UAB Basketball

Assistant Coach Dusty May

mer camps and scheduling. May worked with the post players during his only season at EMU, and helped guide then-senior John Bowler to a first- team All-Mid-American selection after averaging 20.1 points and 10.8 rebounds per contest. May spent three seasons with Davis at Indi- ana, prior to becoming a full-time assistant coach. He was the administrative assistant for the Hoo- siers in 2004-05 and was the video coordinator in 2002-03 and 2003-04. After graduating from Indiana in 2000, May left Bloomington to become an administrative assistant/video coordinator for the men’s basket- ball program at the University of Southern Cali- fornia. While at USC, May was responsible for the video breakdown of opponent’s film, served as director of summer camps, and helped coordinate the day-to-day operations of the men’s basketball office. He also helped supervise support staff, managers, and office workers. The 31-year-old May is a 2000 graduate of Indiana University where he spent four years as a student manager for the men’s basketball team. During his undergraduate days, May assisted with the program’s video coordination and also helped with summer camps. In addition, May also coached the Bloomington (Ind.) Red AAU team, which included current NBA player Sean May. May and his wife, Anna (Nonte), have three sons, Jack, Charlie and Eli.

The May Family: Dusty and Anna with sons (L to R) Eli, Jack and Charlie.

41 UAB Basketball

Director of Operations Howard Pride

Second Season at UAB • 10th Season Overall The Pride FIle

oward Pride enters his second and collegiate level. Born: Dec. 22, 1974 Hseason the UAB men’s basket- Pride first broke into the coach- Education: Vanderbilt, 1997; B.S. - Human and ball team. Pride was promoted to the ing ranks at Belmont University Organization Development role of director of operations after where he was an assistant coach from serving a year as the team’s graduate May of 1997 through June of 1998. Coaching Experience manager in 2007-08. Following his stint with the Bruins, 2008- UAB, Director of Operations Pride played an intricate role last Pride spent one season at Alabama 2007-08 UAB, Graduate Manager 2005-06 Westminister Academy, Head Coach season as a graduate manager, and as an administrative assistant from 2002-03 Howard University, Assistant Coach helped the Blazers to a 23-11 overall 1998-99. While at the two schools, 2001-02 Tennessee State, Assistant Coach record and a 12-4 mark in confer- Pride was responsible for helping 1999-01 Decatur High School, Head Coach ence play. The 23 wins were the third most in with travel, managing compliance matters and 1998-99 Alabama, Administrative Assistant school history, while the 12 league victories ties responsible for the day-to-day operations of the 1997-98 Belmont, Assistant Coach the school mark for conference wins. basketball teams. The former Vanderbilt University basketball From 1999-2001, Pride made the switch to Postseason Experience player joined Mike Davis’ staff in August of 2007. high school coaching and found success, lead- 2008 NIT UAB He came to the Blazer athletic program with nine ing Decatur (Ala.) High School to the state 2007 NCAA Vanderbilt years of coaching experience on the high school tournament during each of his two seasons. In 1996 NIT Vanderbilt 1994 NIT Vanderbilt

Playing Experience 1994-97 Vanderbilt

Honors 2001 Coach of the Year Decatur Daily 1997 All-SEC Academic Team; Captain Vanderbilt his first year as head coach, Pride led Decatur to a 16-14 record and a Sweet 16 finish. He followed that with a 28-8 record in 2001 and a Class 6A state runner-up finish. For his efforts, Pride was tabbed the 2001 Coach of the Year by the Decatur Daily. Pride’s most recent coaching stint came at Westminster Christian Academy in Huntsville, Ala. where he was the head coach of the boys varsity team from 2005-06. In 2006, Pride returned to Nashville and worked at the MBA Academy where he coached the freshman basketball team to a perfect 17-0 record. Additionally, Pride was a director for a Saturday school program (Back In Motion), which tutored inner city youths in math, read While at Vanderbilt, Pride excelled both on and off the court. He was tabbed the team cap- tain of the 1997 Vanderbilt team and selected to the Southeastern Conference All-Academic team. He was also tabbed as the team’s top newcomer during his freshman year (1994) and a finalist for Vanderbilt’s Post-Graduate Community Service Scholarship in 1997. Pride graduated from Vanderbilt in 1997 with a degree in human and organizational develop- ment.

42 UAB Basketball

Support Staff

David Good Lou DeNeen Video Coordinator Strength and Conditioning Coach Second Season at UAB • Eighth Season Overall Second Season at UAB • 25th Season Overall

David Good joined the UAB family in 2007 Lou DeNeen enters his second season as strength after spending two seasons as a graduate assistant and conditioning coach for the UAB men’s basket- on the Eastern Michigan staff. Good is in charge of ball team. the Blazer video program and film exchange. Fur- DeNeen’s training program has already paid thermore, he also helps the coaching staff prepare dividends for the UAB team, as numerous players scouting reports on upcoming opponents and is the have put on muscle, dropped body fat and increased UAB Basketball Camp Director, in addition to other cardiovascular fitness during his two years with the duties assigned by the coaches. program. During his time at UAB, Good played a big part With DeNeen’s help, the Blazers finished last in one of the biggest turnarounds in program history. He had an important season with a 23-11 overall record and reached the second round of the role in helping the Blazers improve eight games in the win column from 2008 NIT, which marked the 13th time in DeNeen’s career that he has been 2007 (15 wins) to 2008 (23 wins). the strength coach for a men’s or women’s basketball team that has reached While with the Eagles, Good assisted with the day-to-day activities of the postseason play. In addition, Walter Sharpe was drafted 32nd overall in the Eastern Michigan men’s basketball team, including video scouts of upcom- 2007 NBA Draft, which is the sixth time a player that DeNeen has coached ing opponents, film exchange and overseeing student managers, among was drafted by an NBA team, including three first round picks. other duties as assigned by the head coach. DeNeen came to UAB from Florida International where he spent a Prior to his stint at EMU, Good spent four seasons in the high school total of 13 years as a head strength and conditioning coach for FIU’s 17 ranks. In 2004-05, Good was the assistant varsity coach at Shepherd High varsity sports. DeNeen was with the Golden Panthers from 1991-94 and School, where he helped the team to a 19-2 overall record and a conference 1997-2007. championship. In between his years at FIU, DeNeen was the head assistant strength He was also the head coach of the freshman team and an assistant coach coach at Cal-Berkeley, with direct responsibility for the football, men’s bas- with the varsity squad at Sacred Heart from 2002-04. Good helped lead the ketball and softball programs. While with the Golden Bears football team, squad to a 20-4 record and a regional championship in 2004. DeNeen was the strength coach for numerous NFL draft picks, including Good has also assisted with numerous basketball camps, including UAB, five first round selections. Marquette, Eastern Michigan and Central Michigan. As head strength coach for Cal’s nationally ranked men’s basketball Good, who resides in Birmingham, is a member of the National Associa- team, DeNeen coached seven players that went on to play in the NBA, tion of Basketball Coaches. including 1996 PAC-10 Player of the Year and scoring champion Shareef Abdur-Rahim and 1997 PAC-10 Player of the Year and scoring champion Ed Gray. Kevin Missouri In addition to DeNeen’s collegiate experience, he has worked with and Graduate Manager trained many professional athletes. His clientele includes MLB players Alex First Season at UAB • Second Season Overall Rodriguez, Raul Ibanez, Mike Lowell, Jose Cruz, Jr. and Alex Gonzalez; NBA players Abdur-Rahim, Mark Strickland, Raja Bell, Jamal Mashburn, Kevin Missouri enters his first season with the Carlos Arroyo, P.J. Brown and Joe Smith; and the NFL’s Tony Gonzalez, UAB men’s basketball team and will fill the role of among many others. graduate manager. Missouri replaces Howard Pride, DeNeen received his B.S. in microbiology from USF in 1991, and who was promoted to the role of director of basket- earned a masters from FIU in 1994. He has been a certified strength and ball operations at the end of last season. conditioning specialist (C.S.C.S.) for 16 years. Missouri joins the UAB basketball family after spending one season as an assistant coach at the Col- lege of Alameda Junior College in Oakland, Calif. In addition, Missouri also coached the 2008 summer basketball camps with the and the University of California Berkely. During his playing days, Missouri was a standout guard at Pasadena City (Calif.) College, where he helped lead his team to a conference title in 2000. Missouri then transferred to Fresno State for his final two years, where he was a member of the team directed by legendary head coach . Missouri received his bachelor’s degree from Patten (Calif.) University in organizational management. He is currently working towards his masters at UAB in health education.

43 UAB Basketball

Support Staff

Bryan Koch The Cincinnati, Ohio, native is a graduate of Kent State University with Athletic Trainer a Bachelor’s of Science in sports management. He is a member of the Col- Eighth Season at UAB • 10th Season Overall lege Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA), as well as the U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA). He and his wife, the former Leah Bryan Koch is in his eighth year as the men’s bas- Douglas, reside in McCalla. ketball athletic trainer, and his eighth year overall at UAB. Koch has oversight and supervision of athletic training for all men’s varsity sports at UAB and is in Sharon Johnson charge of the department’s drug testing procedures. Associate AD/Academics Koch has played an instrumental role in the First Season at UAB • 18th Season Overall rehab and prevention of injuries to men’s basketball players over the years. During his time at UAB, Koch Sharon Johnson enters her first year at UAB in has been a part of three NCAA Tournament teams, the role of a Student Athlete Academic Advisor. including the 2004 Sweet 16 squad, and two NIT selections. While Johnson will in other areas of support for Born and raised in Vincennes, Ind., Koch received his bachelor’s degree all student athletes in the Hire Hoke Student Athlete in athletic training from Indiana State in 1998. He then received his masters Academic Support Center, her primary role will be in athletic administration from Auburn in 2000. assisting the Blazer men’s basketball program. Spe- After graduation from Auburn, Koch served as the head athletic trainer cifically, Johnson is responsible for the academic sup- for the Samford men’s basketball team. After a year with the Bulldogs, he port and monitoring of the men’s basketball team. came to UAB as a football athletic trainer. Koch worked with the UAB foot- In addition to her duties, Johnson will oversee ball for three seasons, along with men’s basketball. In 2003, he relinquished the academic progress of the UAB volleyball team, as well as, assist with the his football duties to concentrate his talents solely on men’s basketball. UAB’s NCAA CHAMPS life skills program. Koch is a member of National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA), Prior to coming to the UAB family, Johnson spent three years as a Stu- SouthEast Athletic Trainers Association (SEATA) and Alabama Athletic dent Academic Support Coordinator at Arkansas State University located in Trainers Association (ALATA). Jonesboro, Ark. While there, Johnson was devoted to the overall academic He is married to the former Shawna Campbell and the couple resides in success of student athletes. Johnson also assisted in performing duties related Good Hope, Ala. The couple have a newborn daughter, Campbell Brylee, to compliance with NCAA, Sunbelt Conference, and institutional standards born Aug. 11, 2008. for athletic eligibility. In addition to implementing and supervising tutorial/ mentoring programs, she assisted in the student life skills career and commu- nity development programs. Johnson also developed techniques adaptable to Aaron Jordan assist athletes with learning disabilities. She worked directly with the sports Associate Media Relations Director of football, men’s/women basketball, women’s tennis, baseball, and men’s/ Fifth Season at UAB • Ninth Season Overall women’s track and field. Before entering college athletics, Johnson was employed by the Earle Aaron Jordan, who rejoined the UAB athletics School District in Earle, Ark. as a Business Education instructor. During program in July of 2006 as associate athletics media her four years, Johnson coordinated the business program for the Earle relations director, enters his fifth year at UAB. Jor- High School Career Academy. In her third year at Earl High School, John- dan, who also spent two years at UAB from 2002- son won the National Hospitality Association 2002-03 LMP Teacher of 04, is the media liaison for the men’s soccer, men’s the Year Award for the State of Arkansas, an outstanding achievement in basketball and men’s golf teams. her field. In the summers, she taught English, reading and writing for the Prior to his latest stint with the Blazers, Jordan fifth through the ninth grades. She also taught classes in the after-school was the associate director for media relations at enrichment programs designed to help student succeed on state mandated Indiana University from 2004-06. While there, Jor- benchmarks tests. dan was the media contact for the nationally-ranked men’s basketball team, Johnson has a passion for education. She served as a volunteer for the Lit- working directly with current UAB head coach Mike Davis. He also super- eracy Council of Northeast Arkansas, voluntarily tutor students and adults vised the media relations efforts for Indiana’s 2004 and 2005 men’s soccer preparing for the GED, ACT and SAT, and serve as a youth counselor/tutor team, as well as the team’s 2004 national championship run. for underprivileged teens in her church. During his career, Jordan has been to six postseason tournaments in Johnson received her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administra- men’s basketball, including three NCAA Tournament (two at UAB and one tion from Arkansas State University (1991) and earned a Master of Science at Indiana) and three NIT appearances (two at UAB and one at Indiana) in Education (2007). during his eight years in the profession. He has also helped the media rela- tions efforts for the UAB men’s golf team (2008) and men’s soccer team (2006) when they made an NCAA Tournament appearance. Jordan also completed internships with the Southeastern Conference (2001-02) and East Carolina University (2000-01) media relations depart- ments.

44 UAB Basketball

Support Staff

Judy Nichols Vic Salem Administrative Associate Manager 31st Season Overall 26th Season Overall

Judy Nichols is serving in her 31st year with the Vic Salem has been an invaluable contributor to UAB athletic department and is the longest tenured the UAB basketball program for a long time. The employee in the UAB athletic department. 2008-09 season marks Salem’s 26th season with During that time, Nichols worked under Gene UAB basketball. He also is in his 12th year with Bartow as his administrative associate for basket- the women’s basketball program. His duties include ball and while he was the Director of Athletics. helping out with practice and assisting the coaches After working under former UAB AD Herman and managers whenever needed. Frazier, she returned to the basketball office under He came to UAB in 1982 when he joined the former head coach Mike Anderson. She now handles staff under former head coach . In the administrative duties for Mike Davis’ program. She also helps coordinate the years since, Salem has seen the program grow. He enjoys working with the UAB men’s basketball camps during the summer. basketball team and being a part of UAB. In 1996, Salem was awarded with Nichols was born and raised in Louisiana where she lived before moving a UAB Varsity Honorary Letter, which is given to people surrounding the to Birmingham 32 years ago. UAB athletic program who have made significant contributions to help bet- Nichols is married to Robert Nichols, who is a retired school principal. ter UAB athletics.

Jared Patterson Head Manager Second Season Overall

Jared Patterson enters his second season with UAB basketball. Patterson’s responsibilities include helping with practice, video assistance and oversee- ing UAB’s manager staff. Patterson, originally from Dallas, Texas, is a senior majoring in health education with a minor in philosophy, and is slated to graduate May of 2009.

Josh Cheek Student Manager First Season Overall

45 Coaching Staff

Mike Davis Head Coach

Donnie Marsh Wes Flanigan Dusty May Howard Pride Associate Head Coach Assistant Coach Assistant Coach Director of Operations

46