Clark University selected a Division I assistant coach to help lead the Cougars' men's program back into contention in the NEWMAC. Brown University assistant coach Tyler Simms was named as the new head coach, replacing Paul Phillips who retired at the end of last season.
Clark Director of Athletics and Recreation Trish Cronin confirmed the hire via press release.
"We are very excited to have Tyler joining our staff as the next head men's basketball coach," said Cronin in the release. "His coaching experience stood out in our nationwide search and his commitment to player and personal development will certainly take the men's basketball program to the next level."
Simms spent the last four seasons as an assistant coach on Mike Martin's staff at Brown University. The Bears went 20-12 last season, setting a program record for victories. Simms was involved in recruitment, scouting and player development.
Prior to that Simms spent two seasons as an assistant coach at his alma mater Trinity (Conn.) where he was part of the staff that led the Bantams to the round of eight in the 2015 NCAA Tournament. Simms played four years at Trinity and was team captain as a senior in 2008.
Simms also had stops as Director of Basketball Operations for two seasons at Division I Sienna and graduate assistant at Division II Mercyhurst.
He replaces Paul Phillips who retired after 20 seasons as the Cougars head coach. Phillips went 268-256 at Clark but the Cougars won just nine games combined over the last two seasons and finished 1-13 in the NEWMAC the past two seasons. The Cougars have not had a winning season in conference since 2008.
"Clark is a truly special institution with its academic excellence, community involvement and basketball program that holds a rich history of national success," said Simms in the release. "It is with great excitement and enthusiasm that I look forward to being part of the Clark community and getting to know our student-athletes."