West to return to Villanova as assistant coach

VILLANOVA, Pa. – Doug West, who ranks fifth on Villanova’s all-time scoring list with 2,037 points, is returning to his alma mater for a second tour as an assistant coach, it was announced today. West previously served as a Wildcats assistant from 2007-10 before resigning in June 2010 to pursue an opportunity in private business.

                “We’re delighted to welcome Doug back to the staff,” stated Villanova head coach Jay Wright. “Doug is a Villanova legend and his commitment to this community has never wavered. As a longtime NBA player he brings a unique perspective to our staff and his dedication to the development of our young men makes him a great asset as a coach.”

                West served three seasons as an assistant coach during a period when the Wildcats claimed 77 victories, including seven in the NCAA Tournament.

During his four seasons as a player on the Main Line, the 6-7 West was one of the most prolific scorers in Villanova history. He totaled 2,037 points from 1985-89 and in his first tenure on staff helped tutor Scottie Reynolds, who moved past West into second place on the all-time scoring list with 2,222 points. In 1988, the native of Altoona, Pa.,  helped lead the Wildcats to the Elite Eight and was named to the all-Southeast Regional team for his efforts.

West played nine seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves of the National Basketball Association before completing his career with the Vancouver Grizzlies in 2001.

In conjunction with the re-hiring of West it was announced today that Keith Urgo is returning to the role of director of basketball operations. Urgo came to Villanova in 2007 and has served in several positions since, including two seasons as director of operations (2008-10). Baker Dunleavy, meanwhile, will assume the role of assistant strength and conditioning coach in his second season on staff in 2011-12.

In May, it was announced that former Navy head coach Billy Lange had been named the Wildcats’ associate head coach.

“We’re really excited about the chemistry of this staff,” stated Wright. “They each have deep Villanova Basketball ties and a great commitment to the mission of our university.”

Villanova will return to the court in August in advance of an exhibition tour to Europe slated for Aug. 7-15.