STILLWATER, Okla., April 17 (UPI) -- Oklahoma State introduced new men's basketball Coach Travis Ford at a Thursday news conference in Stillwater.
Ford's hiring initially was reported Wednesday by both ESPN and KOCO-TV, Oklahoma City. It was confirmed by the Big 12 Conference school late Wednesday night.
Ford last week said he would stay in a similar job at the University of Massachusetts after an overture from Providence College.
"I was asked today why Oklahoma State," he said at the news conference. "It first starts with the fans and the affection and excitement they have for this basketball program. I want to be surrounded by people who love the game. Everyone I talk to said they have passionate fans."
The ex-Kentucky guard guided the Minutemen to a 62-35 record in three seasons. They were 25-11 this past season (10-6 Atlantic 10) and advanced to the NIT title game, where they lost 92-85 to Ohio State.
Ford replaces Sean Sutton, who took over as Cowboys coach in February 2006 after his father, Eddie Sutton, took medical leave following a DUI accident. Sean Sutton took the job permanently when his father retired in May 2006, and went on to lead Oklahoma State to an overall record of 44-35 before resigning April 1.
