Texas assistant coach Mike Morrell has been named the new head coach at North Carolina-Asheville. Morrell, 35, spent the last seven seasons as the assistant coach under Shaka Smart at both Virginia Commonwealth and Texas.
Morrell, a Tennessee native, began coaching at King College in Bristol, Tennessee. He previously played for Milligan College — just an hour away from UNC-Asheville — finishing his career with over 1,400 points. Therefore, it’s no surprise Morrell is making this move.
Mike Morrell Named Head Coach of @UNCAbasketball (story) #ThePursuit https://t.co/j9BNVA5e0T pic.twitter.com/bg18KOvKVK
— Asheville Athletics (@ashevilledogs) April 11, 2018
“Bulldog fans, please join us in welcoming Mike back to the area he calls home,” UNC-Asheville athletic director Janet Cone said.
Former UNC-Asheville coach Nick McDevitt went 98–66 over the last five seasons with the Bulldogs. Due to that success, he was hired by Middle Tennessee State, creating the job opening.
Smart appreciated the loyalty and selflessness Morrell provided throughout the years they spent together and wished him the best.
“He is driven, diligent and tremendously hard working,” Smart said in a statement. “He does a phenomenal job connecting with student-athletes, parents, recruits and supporters. UNC-Asheville is getting a terrific head coach!”
Super excited for @CoachMMorrell on the job at UNC Asheville!! He’s going to do great things over there! Hell of a coach even a better man!
— DO (@DylanOsetkowski) April 11, 2018