SCSU’S Betts resigns to accept Assistant’s
Position at Oklahoma
May 20, 2006
ORANGEBURG, SC – South Carolina State head men’s
basketball coach Ben Betts, Jr, has resigned his position with
the Bulldogs to become an assistant at Oklahoma. Bett’s
resignation is effective May 25, according to SCSU Athletics
Director Charlene Johnson.
SCSU Photo
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Ben Betts |
In
three seasons as Bulldog head coach, Betts compiled a 51-39
overall mark and a 36-18 record in the Mid-Eastern Athletic
Conference. During his first season – 2003-04 – he
guided the Bulldogs to an 18-11 record and was 14-4 in the
MEAC, earning a tie for the league’s regular season crown.
During
the 2004-05 season, SCSU was 19-12 overall and 11-7 in the
MEAC. This past season, the Bulldogs were 14-16 on the season
and 11-7 in the league.
“We
appreciate the service Coach Betts rendered to our men’s
basketball program,” said SCSU’s Johnson. “We
wish him well in his new position at Oklahoma.”
Johnson said that a search for a successor to Betts would
begin immediately. In the interim, she noted that basketball
operations would be handled by assistant coach Stan Cromartie.
Johnson also said that this year’s scheduled Ben Betts
Bulldog team (June 2-4) and individual (June 18-21) basketball
camps would be cancelled due to the departure of Betts.
“To have a successful camp requires a great deal of
preparation,” Johnson said. “And, with coach Betts
leaving, we think it would be best to cancel the camps this
year. It is our hope that the new coach can come in, work hard
and be in a position to conduct the camps next summer.”
Betts thanked SCSU and praised the university and the Orangeburg
community for the opportunity and support he enjoyed as Bulldog
head coach.
“First of all, I’m very appreciative of the opportunity
South Carolina State University has given me,” said Betts. “I
feel extremely fortunate to have represented the university
as its men’s basketball coach.
“I extend sincere thanks,” he continued “to
the Board, President Andrew Hugine, Mrs. Johnson and the rest
of the SCSU family for all of their support, and for making
my tenure at the university a very gratifying one. I wish continued
success for the program.
“Also, my experiences and interaction with the Orangeburg
community have been very rewarding.
“And, finally, I would like to thank the members of
the men’s basketball team, the staff and support personnel
for their hard work and commitment and wish them all well in
the future.”
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