Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Tom Hankins named head coach at Central Oklahoma
05/14/2015 | 12:00:00 | Men's Basketball
CARBONDALE, Ill. - Southern Illinois associate head coach Tom Hankins was named men's basketball head coach at Central Oklahoma, the school announced earlier today.
A native and lifelong resident of Tulsa, Okla., Hankins spent 15 seasons as an assistant at Oral Roberts before coming to SIU in 2012 and served three seasons on Barry Hinson's staff at Southern. He was originally hired by Hinson at ORU in 1997, and worked under him for two seasons (1997-99).
"I am extremely happy for Tom, his wife Annie, and the Hankins family," Hinson said. "It's a terrific opportunity for him and we wish him the best. We greatly appreciate Tom's contributions the past three years and look forward to seeing him succeed as a head coach."
During his tenure at Oral Roberts, the Golden Eagles won five Summit League regular-season championships and made three NCAA Tournament appearances (2006, 2007, 2008), along with two trips to the NIT (2005, 2012).
"I can't say enough how excited me and my family are to be coming to UCO," said Hankins. "Growing up in Oklahoma, we're aware of what a great community Edmond is and we know of the tradition at UCO."
The Salukis posted a 40-57 record during Hankins tenure at SIU, finishing as high as fourth in the conference standings in 2014. In addition to serving as the top assistant, Hankins was Southern's recruiting coordinator.
Hinson said he will move quickly to fill the opening on his staff.
"As a head coach, you always have a contingency plan," he said. "We will hire the best person and fit for our program."
