SUNY Oneonta Head Men’s Basketball Coach Cameron Conover has announced that former team captain AC Kirkwood III has been named as the top assistant coach for the Red Dragons. He will assist in all facets of the program with a primary emphasis on recruiting, player development, scouting and operations, as well as administrative duties.
Kirkwood III returns to Oneonta after working the last two years in the private sector in California.
“Who ever thought I would be coming back to a little town called Oneonta to live,” said Kirkwood. “Forever my second home. I’m truly blessed and honored to be working alongside not just a good coach, but a good man, Cameron Conover. I’m also blessed and honored to have one more chance at getting this SUNY Championship and a chance in the NCAA tournament with this great group of players we have. Since I visited this campus back in 2017, Oneonta has only produced positive things, and opportunities in my life. I’m Truly grateful to be called the new Assistant Coach. And I’m happy to be back HOME!”
A natural leader, Kirkwood helped Oneonta qualify for back-back playoff appearances, including one championship game. In two seasons he played in 50 games and led the team in free throw percentage (85%) both years.
“I am incredibly excited to announce AC Kirkwood III as our top assistant coach, and I am ecstatic that AC will be returning to Oneonta. During his time as a player he left a profound mark on me and our program. Our players will benefit greatly from AC and I know they will enjoy learning from him. AC is one of the best human beings I know, and I am privileged to have the opportunity to work with him day in and day out. I’m proud to bring home a former player to Oneonta Basketball.”
Kirkwood III was a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and was seen as a leader on campus. Prior to his time at SUNY Oneonta, Kirkwood III competed at Chaffey College in Rancho Cucamonga, California. A native of Staten Island, N.Y., Kirkwood was a standout forward for Alta Loma High School.
Kirkwood III graduated from SUNY Oneonta with a bachelor’s degree in Communications and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in strategic communications.
AC Kirkwood III named Assistant Basketball Coach at SUNY Oneonta
