CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Alan Major says he plans to make Charlotte into a regular contender in the Atlantic 10 by focusing on defense after fulfilling a goal since he was 13 to become a head coach.
Saying he’s humbled and excited, Major was introduced on Monday. In his first head coaching job, he replaces Bobby Lutz, who was fired last month after 12 seasons and a five-year NCAA tournament drought.
The 41-year-old Major spent the past nine seasons working for Thad Matta, the first three at Xavier and the past six at Ohio State. He’s credited with helping develop Greg Oden and other big men in his coaching stops.
He’ll take over a program that started 18-5 last season before a 1-7 finish left the 49ers without an NCAA tournament or NIT bid.