Donlon named Horizon League Coach of the Year; Darling second team

Picked to finish last in the Horizon League before the season, Billy Donlon led the Raiders to a third place finish.

((Contributed by Wright State Athletics))

Wright State men’s basketball coach Billy Donlon was named the Horizon League Coach of the Year and junior forward Cole Darling was named to the League’s Second Team as the All-Horizon League teams were announced Monday.

Donlon, in his third season as head coach, led the Raiders to a 19-11, 10-6 record and a third-place finish after being picked to finish last in the preseason poll.  He holds an overall record of 51-44.

Junior forward Cole Darling was named to the All-Horizon League Second Team.

“I am very happy for Cole,” Donlon said.  “He has had an outstanding season with both his play and leadership.  He is very deserving of this selection. I want to also congratulate our players and staff because the Coach of the Year award is a reflection of their efforts.”

Darling, who has missed the last four games, has led the team in scoring with an 11.3 points per game average.  The Holt, Michigan native has scored 20 or more points three times this year, including his career-high 29 points against Morehead State.  He also holds the team lead in rebounding average at 4.6.

Wright State (19-11, 10-6 Horizon) will take on the winner of Tuesday’s Loyola at Youngstown State contest on Friday, March 8, at 6:00 Eastern in Valparaiso.

WSU League Coach of the Year

2004   Paul Biancardi

2008   Brad Brownell (co)

2013   Billy Donlon