Butler stayed in the family with its new coach.
The Bulldogs announced that Brandon Miller, a 34-year-old former Butler player and assistant, would succeed Brad Stevens as head coach after Stevens became the head man with the Boston Celtics.
The news comes just a few days before Miller and his staff can set out recruiting during the July live period. The Bulldogs entered the Big East July 1 and Miller can now get out and meet and greet on the recruiting trail.
The other major candidate was Michigan assistant LaVall Jordan, a former Butler assistant under Todd Lickliter who was on the bench for the NCAA championship game this season.
“I am extremely pleased to announce that former Butler University men’s basketball player and assistant coach Brandon Miller ’03 has been appointed as head coach of the Butler men’s basketball team, effective immediately,” Butler University Vice President and Director of Athletics Barry Collier said.
“I am confident that Brandon will carry on the Butler University basketball tradition of excellence, especially as we make the transition to the Big East Athletic Conference. As a player, assistant coach, and person, Brandon has exemplified the Butler Way and brings a blend of energy, talent and integrity to this role. With Brandon’s leadership, Butler is well positioned to expand upon the success of the last few years.”
Miller played at Butler through 2003 as the team built a 77-20 record over a three-year span, earned three conference championships and appeared in three postseason tournaments.
Miller returned to Butler in April as an assistant coach. He last worked at Butler during the 2007-08 season, helping the Bulldogs to a 30-4 record, conference regular season and tournament championships and another berth in the NCAA tournament.
(The AP contributed reporting)
