Matt Spencer has been elevated from a student assistant coach to a full-time assistant with the SUNY Canton men’s basketball program, Head Coach Ben Thompson announced on Thursday.

Spencer spent the 2016-17 season as a student assistant coach with the Roos as the team finished with its second consecutive 20 win season posting a record of 20-9.

“I could not be more excited for Matt and for the opportunity to elevate him to a full time assistant coaching position,” Thompson said. “His loyalty, dedication, and hard work was a huge reason for our success last season. He has been nothing but professional and humble throughout our time together. I look forward to watching him continue to grow as he takes this next step in his coaching career.”

Spencer helped lead the Roos to the inaugural American Collegiate Athletic Association (ACAA) Championship and the first Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) playoff win in school history as the Roos defeated Pine Manor College in both games last season.

“I was happy to work as a student assistant that helped lead our team to the ECAC Tournament last year,” Spencer said. “I am excited to continue to build the reputation of the team and increase our exposure to a national level.”

Spencer played two seasons for the Roos including starting all 24 contests he appeared in during the 2015-16 season posting a team-best 31 blocks to go with 99 rebounds and 74 points. He scored a season-high eight points to go with six rebounds in just 13 minutes of action in an 85-60 win at SUNY Potsdam.

Rick Thompson will continue to serve as a volunteer assistant in his second season with the Roos during the 2017-18 academic year.

The Roos will open the 2017-18 season on Friday, November 17th when they square off with SUNY Cortland in the Ithaca Cortaca Classic hosted by Ithaca College.

http://rooathletics.com/news/2017/9/20/mens-basketball-spencer-elevated-to-full-time-assistant.aspx