Herenda named associate basketball coach

GREENVILLE, NC   (June 8, 2004)   —   Greg Herenda has been promoted to associate head coach of the East Carolina University men’s basketball team, head coach Bill Herrion announced on Tuesday.

Herenda recently discussed an opening at the University of Virginia for one of its assistant coaching positions, but withdrew his name from consideration and has decided to remain a member of the Pirate coaching staff.

“I was truly flattered by Coach [Pete] Gillen and Virginia for being interested in me,” said Herenda. “I truly believe in what we’re trying to accomplish here. ECU’s desire to keep me here was key in my decision to stay in Greenville.”

“Its very flattering that an ACC school would pursue one of our coaches,” stated Herrion. “I think that says a lot about the quality of our coaches. I also think it says even more that he decided to stay at East Carolina. He has been a big part of the building process and his commitment solidifies the direction we’re going in the future.”

Herenda was named to Herrion’s ECU staff just prior to the start of the 2000-01 season, after spending one season as an assistant coach with the Cincinnati Stuff of the International Basketball League.

He has over 20 years of experience as a collegiate basketball coach. Herenda has served as an assistant coach at Yale (1997-99), Seton Hall (1994-97), Holy Cross (1989-94), Merrimack College (1985-89) and University of Lowell (1983-85).

“It is an honor to be given this title, but I don’t think my role is going to change very much,” stated Herenda. “We all work hard to put the best team on the floor and win as many games as we possibly can.”

“Coach Herrion and I have a very special working relationship and we are the best of friends. You really can’t put a price tag on our relationship.”