Wed Mar 26 14:08:07 2008

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Missouri State names Martin head coach

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Springfield, MO (Sports Network) - Missouri State University named Cuonzo Martin its new men's basketball coach on Wednesday.

Martin replaces Barry Hinson, who was fired after guiding the team for nine years, compiling a 169-117 record and taking the school to the NIT on four occasions.

The 36-year-old Martin, who was a star player at Purdue from 1991-95, will guide the Bears next season when they move into the $67 million, 11,000-seat JQH Arena. Martin, who had been on the coaching staff at Purdue for the past eight years, will be paid about $300,000 per season with the chance for incentives.

"I am excited to be joining such a great university and working with the faculty, staff and students," said Martin. "And I am ecstatic about having the chance to lead this basketball family. The Missouri State basketball program has a rich tradition and it is clear that the fans love the Bears."

The Bears, who went 17-16 overall and 8-10 in the Missouri Valley Conference last season, are expected to return two starters for Martin's initial season.

"We are extremely pleased that Coach Martin has joined our university as head basketball coach," said athletics director Bill Rowe. "We considered a number of excellent candidates for the position, but Cuonzo rose to the top in all categories, from background to references. We couldn't be happier."