RENO, Nev.– Privateers men's basketball assistant coach,
Bil Duany has
accepted the same position with the Nevada Wolf Pack. The announcement was made on Monday.
Duany will join the staff of Steve Alford who was hired by Nevada in mid-April. The former Privateers assistant coach spent four years on the Lakefront and contributed to the resurgence of the men's basketball program.
"We as a program are extremely appreciative and grateful for Coach
Bil Duany's contributions to our program," said Head Coach
Mark Slessinger. "He has been an incredible coach, mentor, friend, and colleague to so many within the UNO family. Coach Alford and the University of Nevada are getting a great coach and a better person."
Duany was brought on prior to the 2015-16 season. His main responsibilities included working with post players, serving as a liaison to the strength and conditioning staff, assisting in recruiting, and preparing scouting reports.
In his second season, the Privateers went 20-12 on their way to a Southland Conference regular season and tournament championship. New Orleans scored a spot in the NCAA tournament for the first time in 21 years. Forward, Erik Thomas was the Southland Player of the Year while
Travin Thibodeaux landed on the conference's All-Defensive Team.
His recruiting ability helped land
Makur Puou who was an NJCAA All-American honorable mention. In 2018-19,
Gerrale Gates was named the Southland Conference Freshman of the Year. Gates became the third Privateer to earn that award and the first since 2004 (Bo McCalebb).
"Bil has had such an integral part in the renaissance of New Orleans Basketball," said Slessinger.
Prior to coming to the Lakefront, Duany began his Division I coaching career as an assistant at New Mexico State. Duany helped the Aggies to a 24-11 record, a Western Athletic Conference regular season and tournament title, and a spot in the NCAA tournament.
Duany joins Alford who has a lengthy track record as a head coach. The newest head coach at Nevada has a 587-298 career record as a head coach. He has been to 11 NCAA Division I tournaments.
Director of Basketball Operations,
Corey Schmidt will serve as interim assistant coach.
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