Braves Men’s Basketball Coach Montez Robinson wins SWAC Coach of the Year
Alcorn State University’s Men’s Basketball Head Coach, Montez Robinson, is reaping the benefits of turning the Braves into one of the Southwestern Athletic Conference’s top teams.
The SWAC announced today that Robinson had been named the SWAC’s 2017 Coach of the Year. He recently led the Braves on an 11-game winning streak, securing a first round SWAC Tournament game against Mississippi Valley State University that’s scheduled for Tuesday, March 7 in the Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex at 6 p.m.
Robinson, who has led the Braves to a 26-10 SWAC record over the past two years, has coached the team to its first consecutive winning seasons in the conference since the 2001-02 and 2002-03 seasons.
The Coach of the Year Award is one that Robinson is proud to share with his players and staff. He credits their dedication for the helping him lead the Braves to success.
“It’s a blessing,” said Robinson. “This award isn’t just about me, but it is also about my coaches and players because they played a part in the team’s success. A coach doesn’t win an award without his players, staff and the support of the fans. I accept this award on everyone’s behalf.”
The award also marks Robinson as the first Braves head coach to win the honor since former head coach, the late Davey Whitney, won it in 2002. Robinson feels honored to be mentioned in the same breadth as the legendary Alcornite.
“It’s amazing to be mentioned in the same company as Coach Whitney. If I can achieve half of the success he achieved, then I would call that a blessed career.”
In the 2014 season, prior to Robinson’s arrival, the Braves finished the season with a 6-26, 4-14 SWAC record. After countless peep talks about accountability and solidifying a positive legacy, Robinson credits his team’s will to win for becoming one of the league’s top tier squads.
“We’ve had a wonderful turnaround. The student athletes want to be coached, and our seniors want to finish their careers at Alcorn as winners. They want to leave a legacy of success behind as basketball players.”
A.J. Mosby, a junior guard for the Braves, congratulated Robinson for his award and applauded him for his commitment to excellence.
“I think it’s a good thing that he won,” said A.J. “No one thought that we would finish number two in the SWAC. He does a great job at preparing us, and he deserves the award.”
Marquis Vance, a senior forward for the Braves, commended Robinson on his quality coaching skills.
“He really came in and made some positive changes to the program,” said Marquis. “This award shows others just how good of a coach he is.”
Remember to come and support the Braves as they take on Valley in their home, first round SWAC Tournament game Tuesday, March 7 at 6 p.m. Ticket prices for adults are $15 and $10 for children ages 6-12. Children under age five get in free. Alcorn students will have a chance to win one of two $100 gift cards from Sodexo. Students must be present to win.
