UNC Asheville Athletics announced new three-year contracts for head women’s basketball coach Honey Brown and head men’s basketball coach Mike Morrell on Wednesday.
“We are excited that both Honey and Mike have signed new three year contracts,” stated Janet R. Cone, Director of Athletics. “Both of them are All in for Asheville and have the vision and expertise to help our Bulldogs become Champions and Leaders.”
Brown took over the women’s head coaching role at Asheville last spring, guiding the Bulldogs to a Big South Quarterfinal appearance in the ever-changing season that was 2020-21. Asheville garnered nine wins in conference play as Brown coached Nadiria Evans (First Team) and Kai Carter (Second Team) to All-Big South honors in her first year at the helm of the program.
“I am very grateful for the opportunity to lead this program,” Brown said. “A special thanks to Janet Cone and all those involved with UNC Asheville in this process. The commitment from our administration to women’s basketball is evident and very exciting!”
On the men’s side, Morrell capped off his third year at Asheville this past season, guiding the Bulldogs to a first-round bye in the Big South Tournament, hosting quarterfinal matchup for the first time since 2018. Despite having a gap of 30 days in between games due to COVID-19 protocols, Asheville compiled a record of 10-10 overall, going 9-5 (.643) in conference play. Morrell coached Tajion Jones (Second Team) and LJ Thorpe (Honorable Mention) to All-Big South honors, with Jones earning NABC All-District 3 Second Team recognition.
“I want to thank Janet Cone, Chancellor Cable and the Board of Trustees for their continued support in myself and in our program,” Morrell said. “I love coaching here at UNC Asheville, and I’m very excited about the progress our team has made over the past few years. Can’t wait to get back out on the court for the 2021-22 season as we continue to chase our goal of winning the Big South Championship.” The contracts carry both Brown and Morrell through the 2023-24 season.
