Youngstown State University has named Ethan Faulkner as the new head coach for the men’s basketball team following the departure of former coach Jerrod Calhoun to Utah State. Faulkner, who previously served as an assistant coach on Calhoun’s staff, has been promoted to the position of head coach.
Athletic director Ron Strollo expressed confidence in Faulkner’s ability to lead the program, citing his strong rapport with the players and recruits. Faulkner will be officially introduced as the head coach at a press conference on Wednesday.
Faulkner’s appointment comes after Calhoun’s departure to Utah State, where he will be taking on a new coaching role. Strollo thanked Calhoun for his contributions to the program and wished him well in his future endeavors.
Under Calhoun’s leadership, Youngstown State experienced success on the court, including winning its first Horizon League regular season championship. Faulkner will now be tasked with continuing the program’s positive momentum and guiding the team towards the ultimate goal of reaching the NCAA Tournament.
With several players leaving the team due to graduation and transfers, Faulkner will need to focus on rebuilding the roster. His experience as a player at Northern Kentucky and as a coach at various universities will be valuable assets in this transition period.
Youngstown State’s decision to swiftly appoint Faulkner as the head coach reflects their commitment to maintaining the program’s success and ensuring continuity during this period of change. Faulkner’s leadership will be crucial in guiding the team through the upcoming season and beyond.