Anthony Boone fired after five seasons at Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas announced on Saturday a change in leadership for its men’s basketball program, with head coach Anthony Boone fired after five seasons at the helm. Boone got the interim job in December 2019 and then was hired officially following the 2019-20 season, but never won more than 11 games in any full season in charge. He finishes his tenure with a 43-96 overall record.

“Anthony Boone is a model of leadership,” said AD Dr. Brad Teague. “We could not have asked for a better person to lead our young men. That made the decision to change our direction much more difficult. But, I decided we needed to find a new leader to explore the possibilities of this program. I want to thank Coach Boone and his staff for many years of hard work and professionalism for our program. Great coaches of character bring great students of character. We have certainly enjoyed that success here.”

The Bears finished 9-23 (5-11) this year and failed to qualify for the upcoming ASUN Tournament, with their season officially ending Friday with a loss at home to North Alabama.

UCA has never been to the D-I NCAA Tournament, having moved up to the top level prior to the 2006-07 season. The program is perhaps best known as the alma mater of NBA great and six-time champion Scottie Pippen, who played there from 1983-87 when UCA was in the NAIA.

credit to Central Arkansas Athletics for the image