May 1, 2007

WASHINGTON - Former Odessa Collage Women's Basketball Coach and Video/Travel Coordinator for the San Antonio Silver Stars, Michael Wholey has been promoted to Assistant Coach of the American University women's basketball team, Head Coach Melissa McFerrin announced Monday.

Wholey comes to American after spending two seasons in Texas, working for the WNBA with the San Antonio Silver Stars and also on the collegiate level with the Odessa College women's basketball squad.

While working as the Video and Travel Coordinator for the Silver Stars, Wholey was responsible for various editing responsibilities, ranging from opponent scouts to draft and trade possibilities. While participating in daily practices, the Marshfield, Mass., native also spent extensive time as the individual development coach for post players.

On the collegiate level, while Wholey was the top assistant coach at Odessa, the team was ranked second in the nation in the NJCAA, eventually going on to win the National Championship in the 2006-07 season. Wholey organized all in state recruiting and assisted with national recruiting, while monitoring the team academic success as well. As the academic advisor, Wholey was in charge of study hall, grades and class attendance.

"Michael brings varied experiences from very high level basketball environments," said Head Coach Melissa McFerrin. "We are excited about the knowledge and work ethic that he will provide to our players and the entire AU basketball program."

Before heading to Texas, Wholey began his coaching career as the Video Coordinator for the Boston University men's basketball team, after earning his bachelor's degree in Visual and Media Arts from Emerson College. Wholey was a three-year letter winner and co-captain of the Emerson College Lions men's basketball team.

American University women's basketball wrapped up its 2006-07 season on a three-game win streak, advancing to the Patriot League Championship for the first time since the 2003-04 season. It marked just the second time AU appeared in the Patriot League title game since joining the league in the 2001-02.