George Mason didn’t waste much time in finding their guy to replace head Coach Dave Paulsen and will officially name Tennessee assistant Kim English to take over the program. The Baltimore native brings energy and widely respected recruiting skills. He played a large role in luring top recruits around the country to Tennessee during his time there. He’s also a former NBA player and will be one of the youngest head coaches (32) in the country, which should relate to potential recruits.

Brad Edwards took a more “safe” approach with the Dave Paulsen hire, given his years of head coaching experience at multiple levels. English will be viewed as more of a high-risk, high-reward type hire and it was one Mason needed to make given the state of the program. The Atlantic 10 is a tough grind and they need someone who can recruit at an elite level to help them compete with the top of the conference.

What others are saying about English:

“Kim English is a grand slam hire for George Mason. He’s the total package. From the day he joined our staff at Tennessee, he made an immediate impact on our program. He has a unique gift for connecting with people and forming genuine relationships. I’m particularly proud that he gets the opportunity to begin his head coaching career at the special place that also gave me my first big opportunity. I know he’ll lead the Patriots to great success.” – Rick Barnes – Head Coach, University of Tennessee

“Simply put, Kim English is the complete package as a Division I basketball coach. He can recruit, he can teach and he can motivate. He is fantastic at player development. He relates well with his players, fellow coaches and alumni. By the way, he can flat out coach. George Mason did not make a home run hire – they hit a grand slam.” – Tad Boyle – Head Coach, University of Colorado

“George Mason is getting a star in Kim English. I had the opportunity to coach Kim at Mizzou his senior year where he lead us to 30 wins and a Big 12 Championship. He was an awesome teammate and a tremendous leader. While Kim was playing professionally, he would watch our games at Mizzou and Tulsa and send me scouting reports of our next opponent. I was so impressed with his passion at the time that when he was finished playing, I hired him right away. His impact was instant. He will be special for George Mason.” – Frank Haith – Head Coach, University of Tulsa

“Kim was 25 and I called his agent – about him becoming a coach with the Sixers. It was clear even then that he had what it takes. George Mason is getting a good one.” – Sam Hinkie – Former General Manager, Philadelphia 76ers