| Allen |
Averett athletic director Charles Harris announced the appointment of Jimmy Allen as head men's basketball coach of the Cougars on Monday, May 24. He replaces Kirk Chandler, who resigned from the position in March.
Averett was 0-25 this past season and has lost 32 consecutive games, 48 of its last 50.
"I am very pleased to have Jimmy join the Averett family," Harris said. "He is a passionate, and knowledgeable coach who has had excellent mentors. He has a keen eye for detail and a genuine concern for the student-athlete's development in all areas of college life. His impressive background has well prepared him for a successful head coaching career."
Allen, who has more than a decade of collegiate coaching experience, was most recently the associate head men's basketball coach at Division I Wofford. Since 2002, he served on the Wofford staff under head coach Mike Young. In 2003 Allen helped guide the Terriers to a 14-win season against the nation's toughest non-conference schedule, according to the RPI. It was the program's most successful season since moving to the Division I level.
"I am very honored and excited about this opportunity," Allen said. "Averett University is a school with vision and a commitment to success. I truly appreciate the confidence that President Pfau, Charles Harris, and the Averett community have shown in me."
Prior to his stint at Wofford, Allen was assistant men's coach for six seasons at the Naval Academy under Don DeVoe. Allen served on Devoe's staff from 1996 to 2002 and assisted on teams that posted an average of 18 wins per year. He helped lead Navy to Patriot League championships and NCAA Tournament berths in 1997 and 1998.
Allen earned his first coaching job as an assistant at his alma mater of Emory & Henry from 1993 to 1996. He was offered a spot on the coaching staff after a successful playing career under Bob Johnson. Allen was the starting point guard all four seasons and was a two-time team captain. He holds the school record for consecutive games played at 117 and is second among the Wasp all-time assist leaders.
Allen played in four consecutive NCAA Division III Tournaments, enjoyed four 20-win seasons, and made a pair of Sweet 16 tournament appearances at Emory & Henry. Allen graduated in 1993 with a bachelor's degree in accounting.
"I have been fortunate to have played and worked for some of the best coaches in the country," Allen said. "I am grateful for all of their help and guidance in preparing me for this position. I also believe that my college experience provided me with a foundation to be successful. I am looking forward to having a chance to share my experiences and help the Averett University student-athletes improve as basketball players, but more importantly as people."