Eaves to Lead App State Once Again
APPALACHIAN STATE MOUNTAINEERS: Coach: Jim Fox (2nd season)
2014-15 Record (12-17, 9-11 Sun Belt)--Ineligible for Conference Tournament.
KEY RETURNEES: G Frank Eaves (16.6, 3.9), G Chris Burgess (9.0, 2.9, 89 assists), G Jake Babic (6.1, 2.5), F Michael Obacha (3.0, 3.5) G Dustin Clarke (6.1, 2.5)
KEY LOSSES: F Tommy Spagnolo (9.7, 7.0)
When Jim Fox took over as Appalachian State head coach a season ago, he knew he had a task. Not only did he have to install his system and his values to the program, he also had to do it knowing there would be no postseason for the Mountaineers. Appalachian State was ineligible because of APR issues Fox inherited. But, App played hard all season long, as evidenced by wins in their final three games of the season.
" Last year was a learning experience. I was happy with the way our team finished considering we were ineligible for postseason," Fox said.
Now, Fox wants to see his team perform with something to play for.
App loses leading rebounder and second scorer Tommy Spagnolo, but returns every other major contributor from last year's 12-17 team, including all-conference performer Frank Eaves. Eaves was one of the better scorers in the league last season, averaging 16.6 points per game. And, as one might expect, Fox is hoping for even bigger things.