Tubbs returns to university

After a month-long search for former men’s basketball headcoach Mike Dement’s replacement, President R. Gerald Turnerand Athletic Director Jim Copeland announced the hiring of JimmyTubbs.

Tubbs, who most recently served as an assistant coach atOklahoma University, returns to SMU after a two-year absence.

“This is a very important day in the history of SMU andthe men’s basketball program,” Turner said.

Turner went on to commend Copeland and the selection committeeon their speedy replacement of Dement and for their efforts in thediligent search.

“I’m glad for it to come to a conclusion, but onlysince I found the right person for the job,” Copeland said.”We had to have someone who shared our values.”

Values Copeland listed as crucial included graduating athletes,operating with integrity, winning conference championships, andberths in the NCAA tournament.Tubbs seemed overwhelmed at hishiring and cared little about hiding his emotions from those inattendance at the press conference.