University of Evansville Director of Athletics Mark Spencer has announced that head men’s basketball coach Marty Simmons has signed a contract extension to remain at his alma mater.

“We are very excited about the significant progress our men’s basketball program has made under Coach Simmons and are thrilled that he will continue to lead the program into the future,” Spencer said. “Marty and his staff have brought tremendous work ethic, passion and energy to the program and the Purple Aces basketball community. These past two seasons were very special totaling 49 wins including a CIT Championship, and we look forward to them taking the next step to the NIT and NCAA tournaments.”

“Marty and his staff have built a great foundation for continued success on the court, in the community and in the graduation of our basketball student-athletes for years to come, and I am excited about the direction and leadership Marty is providing to the program,” Spencer added.

Simmons is entering his 10th year at the helm of the Purple Aces program.  He is coming off of the program’s best season in 27 years as Evansville went 25-9 and advanced to the Missouri Valley Conference Championship Game for the second time in program history. He has directed the squad to five postseason appearances and 20 or more wins in three of the last four seasons.

“I appreciate the commitment and support for the men’s basketball program that the UE administration, President Kazee and Mark have shown,” Simmons said. “We are proud of what we have accomplished thus far and are focused on more goals ahead. I’m excited about the players and coaches we have and the improvements we have made over the last few years. We have a program that will strive to be nationally competitive year after year.”

In keeping with University policy, specific terms of the agreement were not released.

Information courtesy of Bob Pristash, University of Evansville Associate Athletics Director for Media Relations

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