June 25, 2012

TUCSON, Ariz. -

After four seasons as an assistant coach for the Arizona women’s basketball team, Brandy Manning has been promoted to associate head coach, head coach Niya Butts announced on Monday.

“I want to thank Coach Butts and our administration for this great opportunity to take the next step in my coaching career,” Manning said. “I’ve been fortunate to work under Coach Butts for the past four years and share in her vision to restoring the tradition of Arizona women’s basketball.”

Manning came to Arizona in 2009 as one of the nation’s top up-and-coming assistant coaches, handling recruiting duties, working with the Wildcats’ defense, post players, opponent scouting and player development.

“Coach Manning has been with me from the start and he has done a great job as our recruiting coordinator for the last four years,” Butts said. “He has been a strong on-the-floor coach and defensive coach as well. I have a lot of respect for him and his loyalty to this program.”

In four seasons with UA, Manning has been part of a coaching staff to lead Arizona to its first postseason appearance since the 2004-05 season. During the 2011-12 season, Arizona's 11-1 start was the best in program history since the 1999-2000 season.

“I’m well aware of the significance of the position and will remain committed not only to the development of the program, but most importantly the well-being of our student athletes,” Manning said. “I’m excited about what the future has in store for this great program.”

The women’s basketball season team will open its season with Grand Canyon University on Monday, Nov. 5 at McKale Center.