Giving credit where credit is due

Two days ago the WBCA released its list of nominees for Division I coach of the year. While the nominated coaches are deserving, the following coaches are also very worthy of the same honor. In the spirit of giving credit where credit is due, I nominate the following:

Mike Carey, West Virginia

In his 13th season with the Mountaineers, Carey guided the team to a school record-best 30 wins. They debuted in the Big 12 by going to the championship game. Carey has taken the program to new heights every year he has been there.

Wes Moore, North Carolina State

In his first year with the Wolfpack, Moore took a .500 squad to a 25-8 record. He was a Naismith Coach of the Year finalist. Athletes say he is an exciting coach. The future is bright for Moore.

Kenny Brooks, James Madison

Brooks has amassed quite a resume over 12 seasons. This year he took the Dukes won the CAA Championship and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament, which included an upset of Gonzaga in the first. Consistency is Brooks' middle name.

Katie Abrahamson-Henderson, Albany

In her fourth season, Albany has been America East champs the last three years. This season they were 28-5. Abrahamson-Henderson is a rising star.

David Six, Hampton

In five years at Hampton, Six has guided the team to five straight MEAC championships. This year their record was 28-5. Six is an exciting coach that makes fans wonder what's next.

Dawn Brown, Prairie View A&M

Brown took the reins as coach this year after serving three years as an assistant. And for the fourth year in a row, the Panthers took the SWAC championship. Brown has not let her team miss a beat.
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Team recognition:

Three teams have been ranked all or most of the year, and made the NCAA Tournament with ten active players: Tennessee, Nebraska and Florida.

Four teams were ranked and/or won their conference titles with 11 active players: Connecticut, Florida State, Iowa and Idaho.

Kudos to them for not just achieving, but excelling, with a lot less.