Jul 7, 2008
Howard Headed For Mississippi Valley State
Hardin-Simmons' men's basketball coach Dylan Howard has stepped down to accept a position as a Division I assistant at Mississippi Valley State.
"Coach Howard did a very good job with our basketball program," said HSU Director of Athletics John Neese. "He has taken our program to the ASC Tournament three of the last four years, including to the championship game in 2007. He has brought in great players, which not only performed on the court, but performed in the classroom. We wish him the best of luck at Mississippi Valley State.
Howard, who posted a record of 78-103 record in his seven seasons, brought the Cowboy program to new heights under his tutelage. In a total rebuilding effort, his first three teams went a combined 14-60, but showed improvement each season. He went from two wins to five wins to seven wins.
After those first three years, he posted a record of 64-43, which is the fourth best in the ASC over that time period. The Cowboys qualified for the ASC Tournament in 2005 for the first time in school history and made return trips in 2007 and 2008. Each time they won at least one game and in 2007 made it to the finals.
Howard recruited three players that eventually were named the ASC West Player of the Year - Calvin Nite in 2005, Zach Pickelman in 2007 and Mardochee Jean in 2008. Jean is the all-time conference leader in blocked shots and rebounds and became the school's first Division III All-American. Twenty players were honorable mention All-ASC or better during his tenure.
Known for being a stickler for academics, he produced 26 academic All-ASC selections during his tenure, which is second to only LeTourneau. Every player that played for four seasons has their degree, or will graduate by the end of this school year. He installed a program standard GPA that was higher than the NCAA standard and he held players accountable that did not meet the team standard.
Howard was the 25th coach in Hardin-Simmons history. His 78 career wins ranks third in school history.
