Burns named new men's basketball coach at Eastern Washington
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Cheney, WA (Sports Network) - Mike Burns was named the 15th men's head
basketball coach at Eastern Washington University on Thursday.
The 41-year-old Burns, who was an assistant coach at Washington State, replaces Ray Giacoletti, who took over the head coaching duties at Utah. "Mike is a great fit for this position on several levels," said athletic director Scott Barnes. "It starts with the person, and Mike is a man of great character and integrity. His recruiting ties in Washington and the Pacific Northwest are unparalleled. And his work ethic sets him apart." Giacoletti guided the Eagles to the NCAA Tournament this season for the first time in school history after his club won the Big Sky Conference Tournament. Eastern Washington lost to second-seeded Oklahoma State in the first round and ended the campaign with a 17-13 record. Burns served as Giacoletti's assistant from 2000-03, before joining Washington State coach Dick Bennett's staff prior to last season. The Cougars lost to Stanford in the quarterfinal round of the Pac-10 Conference Tournament and finished the 2003-04 campaign with a 13-16 mark. "I'm thrilled to come back to Eastern Washington University," said Burns. "In my heart it feels like I'm coming home. I'm humbled and thankful to receive this opportunity." Burns was also an assistant at Highline Community College, Central Washington and Stephen F. Austin. EWASHINGTN |