NCCU's Spence Back To Work on Limited Basis

DURHAM, NC -- Eagle head men's basketball coach Phil Spence is back to work at North Carolina Central University, but only on a limited basis and in a secondary role, said Spence's primary physician Dr. Charles Cook at a press conference announcing the coach's return Thursday.

The event featured an emotional Spence reading a poem that he wrote on New Year's Day about his ordeal since suffering a stroke on Dec. 6.

Dr. Cook has cleared Spence to work no more than six hours a day and only in a secondary role. That means assistant coach Ed McLean will remain the interim head coach until Dr. Cook feels Spence is ready to take full control of the team, likely before the end of the season. Until that time, Spence said he is going to take it easy and "chill."

"I'll let MarQus (Johnson, Assistant Coach) do all of the cursing, Ed (McLean) do all of the coaching, and I'll just sit back and chill," said Spence, demonstrating that he has not lost his typical sense of humor.

Spence was on the Eagle bench for the first time since his stroke Tuesday night (Jan. 8), inspiring his squad to an 88-81 upset victory over CIAA Eastern Division leaders Bowie State.

According to Dr. Cook, Spence has regained 90 to 95 percent of his strength and mobility in his left leg, and 80 to 90 percent in his left arm. With continued therapy and treatment, Dr. Cook expects the 47-year-old coach to make complete recovery.

"I go to physical therapy for my lower body, occupational therapy for my upper body, and coaching is therapy for me too," said Spence. "It does not do me any good to lay in bed at home doing crossword puzzles."

However, Spence also realizes the severity of his situation and has made some life changes to prevent against another stroke, including a new diet and learning how to deal with stress differently.

"I love coaching, and I love N.C. Central," Spence said, "but I love living more."

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