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Western Illinois head coach Jim Molinari steps down

Western Illinois v Nebraska

LINCOLN, NE - NOVEMBER 12: during their game at Pinnacle Bank Arena on November 12, 2013 in Lincoln, Nebraska. (Photo by Eric Francis/Getty Images) *** Local Caption ***

Eric Francis

After six seasons at Western Illinois, head coach Jim Molinari has decided to resign according to a release from the school. During his time at the Summit League school Molinari won 79 games, with 40 of those wins coming in the 2011-12 and 2012-13 seasons. In both of those years the Leathernecks played in the postseason, making appearances in the CBI on both occasions.

“Having known Coach Molinari for more than 20 years and watched his incredible basketball career and accomplishments he had at Western Illinois University, we wish him continued success and the best of luck,” Western Illinois AD Tommy Bell said in the release. “We thank him for his service to our institution. He will be missed.”

Associate head coach Wade Hokenson will serve as acting head coach. And according to a report from Jeff Borzello of CBSSports.com, Molinari is under consideration for the open spot on Tim Miles’ staff at Nebraska. Miles is short an assistant following the departure of Craig Smith, who was hired as the new head coach at South Dakota in late March.

Western Illinois finished the 2013-14 season with a record of ten wins and 20 losses, and they lose forward Adam Link (9.2 ppg, 4.7 rpg) and center Michael Ochereobia (8.9, 5.4, 1.5 bpg) as both players were seniors. However guards Garret Covington (14.6, 4.7) and Jabari Sandifer (9.0, 3.1 apg) were both freshmen, with the former earning Summit League Newcomer of the Year honors.

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