PC's Cooley Named Naismith Men's Coach of the Year
GoLocalProv News Team
PC's Cooley Named Naismith Men's Coach of the Year
“Ed’s undeniable coaching acumen has been evident throughout his team’s historic 2021-22 season, and we’re thrilled to recognize him as the 2022 Werner Ladder Naismith Men’s Coach of the Year,” said Eric Oberman, executive director of the Atlanta Tipoff Club. “On the court, Oscar and Walker displayed tremendous determination and leadership, resulting in dominant seasons for each and making them worthy representatives of the Naismith Player Awards.”
Cooley, named the Big East Coach of the Year, is the first Friar coach to earn the prestigious honor. He led his team to a historic season, ending the year 27-6 to tie for the second-highest single season win total in program history. Providence also earned its highest tournament seed ever at No. 4 and eventually advanced to the NCAA Sweet 16. This marked the sixth time overall and the first time since 1997 the Friars have managed such a feat. Cooley now ranks second all-time in wins at Providence. He edged out Mark Adams (Texas Tech), Greg Gard (Wisconsin) and Tommy Lloyd (Arizona) for the honor.
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“First, I want to thank the Naismith Awards and those of you who voted that saw something special in our group,” Cooley said. “Secondly, I think the Werner Ladder Naismith Coach of the Year is not an individual award, but the highest team award. I am thankful for my team who showed dedication and perseverance this season. And as the proud coach of Providence College, I know it also can’t be done without a powerful and strong staff supporting all of us.”
Oscar Tshiebwe (Kentucky) received the Jersey Mike’s Naismith Trophy for Men’s Player of the Year and Walker Kessler (Auburn) was named the Naismith Trophy Men’s Defensive Player of the Year.