Story by
Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky.
KWC's Cooper will coach USA U23 team in 2027
- Story byMessenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky.
- KWC's Cooper will coach USA U23 team in 2027
Kentucky Wesleyan College men's basketball coach Drew Cooper has been selected to serve as the head coach of the USA U23 team that will compete next summer at the 2027 Barbados Festival.
The competition will be held July 6-12 in Barbados.
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"The international game seems like it has more and more influence on the game we play here," said Cooper, who will represent the United States through PhD Hoops, an organization that helps coaches and players compete in international basketball events. "I'm excited to coach in a different atmosphere with FIBA rules and against teams that are doing unique things on the floor. I'm looking forward to representing Kentucky Wesleyan and even our nation next summer. I'm appreciative to Richie Schueler for the opportunity and fully believe in what PhD Hoops is doing."
Cooper is entering his ninth season as head coach of the Kentucky Wesleyan men's basketball program and owns a 215-141 record in 13 seasons as a collegiate head coach. Cooper, a three-time conference Coach of the Year, led the Panthers to the 2024 Great Midwest Athletic Conference regular-season championship and their first NCAA Division II Tournament appearance since 2017.
"Everything we've learned about Coach Cooper screams winner, leader, and man of character, which are all qualities we look for in our coaches," said Richie Schueler, founder of PhD Hoops USA. "I'm excited to add him to our staff and give our young athletes an incredible international experience."
For KWC administrators, it's an accolade that Cooper earned.
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"This is a well-deserved honor for Coach Cooper and a great reflection on our basketball program," said Jason Vittone, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics. "Drew represents Kentucky Wesleyan with class and competitiveness every day, and this is a tremendous opportunity."
KWC will open the 2026-27 season with an exhibition matchup on Nov. 5 at Division I Western Kentucky University, with a home opener scheduled for Nov. 9 against Missouri-St. Louis. Season tickets are on sale now.
