Kelsey tapped to coach Winthrop men’s basketball team

Winthrop officials announced Thursday the hiring of former Xavier University assistant basketball coach Pat Kelsey to lead the men’s team.

In a release Thursday, Winthrop Athletics Director Tom Hickman said Kelsey emerged as a dynamic and energetic leader who has had a rich background in working for and learning from highly successful coaches.

“We were fortunate to have a large group of highly qualified and successful coaches in the candidate pool for our head men’s basketball coach,” said Hickman.  “Our vacancy created a lot of interest in the basketball coaching community.  Pat Kelsey emerged as a dynamic and energetic leader who has had a rich background in working for and learning from highly successful coaches.  President DiGiorgio and I were highly impressed with all of our final candidates, but Pat really stood out during the interview process.  We look forward to having him join the Winthrop family as our next head men’s basketball coach and know that he will excite our fan base.”

College Bound Hoops ranked Kelsey eighth in the nation among college basketball assistants. In addition to his recruiting prowess, Kelsey is also recognized as an excellent teacher and tactician in terms of player development, scouting and game preparation.

Kelsey says he is thrilled and honored to be the head coach at Winthrop and part of such a traditionally rich program that has made nine NCAA tournament appearances over the past 14 years.  “Winthrop has a powerful name with its’ history in the NCAA tournament and the successful program it has built.  I am not only looking forward to continuing the winning tradition, but hopefully helping the program to rise to levels never seen before.”

The 36-year-old Xavier Graduate is expected to be formally introduced next week.