Assistant Coach Possibles: Tony Skinn

A multitude of names are being thrown around the internet as it relates to Georgetown’s open assistant coach search. With former Hoya great Pat Ewing being hired as head coach yesterday, the race to fill out his staff is in full swing.

To be expected, of the names are being brandied about on the internet, many simply are an attempt to throw ‘merde’ on a wall and make it stick.

With that in mind – and confirmation of actual Georgetown interest – we bring you a brief review of specific possible candidates.

First up is Tony Skinn, who is known as a smart, aggressive, hard working assistant, comfortable in multiple settings.

A present assistant at Louisiana Tech for two years where he recruited current Conference USA Rookie of the Year Daquan ‘Day-Day’ Bracey (who the Hoyas walked away from), Skinn has made an impact in Ruston, LA. For the Bulldogs, Skinn has also been credited for helping former Conference USA Player of the Year Alex Hamilton to that award, as well as Erik McCree, who was tabbed honorable mention Associated Press All-American.

Having parentage born in Nigeria, Skinn has started for that country’s Olympic team in 2012 as a point guard during the London competition. As a result of that experience, and the fact he’s presently a Nigerian Olympic team coach, Skinn has connections on the African continent for players.

Add roots in the District-Maryland-Virginia region as a boon in recruiting for Skinn, who starred at/graduated from Takoma Academy (MD) in 2001.

Before college coaching, Skinn was a Team Takeover (AAU) coach, making his mark as a teacher; guards are his specialty. While with Takeover, present Hoya guard Tre Campbell learned from him, among others.

The last point makes sense; as an ’03-06 George Mason backcourt guy, Skinn helped the Patriots to the 2006 Final Four. During that historic season, Skinn logged 12.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game for Mason, in 34 minutes each time out. He was the guard who constantly pressured defenses, being someone who must be game planned against in the process.

After college, Skinn played professionally in Europe for seven seasons, continuing his work as and reputation for being a dynamic lead guard. Stops in France, Italy, Germany and Italy were experienced.

For more on Skinn, an up and comer in the coaching ranks, see Premium Court.