Sun Apr 6 17:54:11 2008

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Hilltoppers tab McDonald as new coach

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Bowling Green, KY (Sports Network) - Western Kentucky tabbed Texas assistant Ken McDonald as its new head coach Sunday.

The 38-year-old McDonald spent the past four seasons as an assistant with the Longhorns under Rick Barnes and was also an assistant under Dennis Felton at Western Kentucky for five years.

"I had what I perceive to be an incredible job at Texas, so it was going to take a truly special situation for me to consider leaving," McDonald said at his introductory press conference. "I've been on different benches the last 14 years waiting for an opportunity like this. I truly believe this is a job with no ceiling."

McDonald replaces Darrin Horn, who led Western Kentucky to a 29-7 record this season, a Sun Belt Conference Tournament championship and an appearance in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 15 years.

Horn left WKU to take over at South Carolina.

"Six days ago, we learned that we were going to have a basketball coaching search. We formed a committee very quickly with a goal to find the best fit," said athletic director Wood Selig. "As we concluded our interviews, (McDonald's) passion, his energy and his commitment came through. There was no doubt in our mind that Ken represented the best coach for WKU."

"Once it came open, this was a position that was obviously close to my heart because of the good times and success that we experienced here from 1998-03," McDonald added. "I am very proud of what we were able to accomplish while I was here, but also feel that there is still unfinished business."