By Jett Johnson
Sports Editor
Trevecca parted ways with men’s basketball coach Omar Mance with a record of 2-19 in their overall season at the time and 1-14 in conference play.
Mark Elliot, athletic director, said a lot of factors went into the decision to replace Mance.
“As time went on, there were wonderful things about the program that a lot of people wouldn’t necessarily see. A team is way more than just a record, but a record is still important. As the team continued to struggle in the wins and loss column, it became evident that there’s a piece of the program that we need to take into consideration,” said Elliot.
Mance came to Trevecca in the summer of 2018. His best season was in 2019-2020 when the team posted a 6-21 record. His career record at Trevecca was 21-99.
Current assistant men’s basketball coach Alex Huisman will lead the program for the rest of the season on an interim basis.
Mance said he enjoyed his time at Trevecca.
“Being at Trevecca was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had. The one thing I always loved about Trevecca was it was always about the people,” said Mance.
He said he is particularly concerned with the impact on current players.
“They’re like my sons. In the press conference, I said I want our players to know who God is,” Mance said. “I’ve loved the journey I’ve taken them on. They’re like my family.”
Elliot understands the loss the team has had.
“It’s a big loss for the players. Those guys are here at Trevecca for him. It’s a fair question to ask ‘Will they stay?’ I don’t know the answer to that,” said Elliot.
With the head coaching spot open, Elliot has a plan for the timetable of the next coach.
“We’re going to prioritize a proven head coach from a winning tradition, and preferably from a division II or III program. I’ve told all of the people that have applied that we’ll leave it open for interviews until mid March and have a coach in the seat by April 1st,” said Elliot.
Elliot is also looking for a particular coaching style when looking for potential hires.
“I do want to see more movement, sharing the ball, and I’m going to be looking for coaches that have that philosophy,” said Elliot.
Another question being raised is what this means for recruiting for the rest of the year.
“It’s a significant burden on whoever comes in next,” said Elliot.
