Rothstein Files: Dempsey Set To Take Over Binghamton
By Jon Rothstein
» More Columns
Tommy Dempsey is heading to upstate New York.
According to multiple sources with knowledge of the situation, the 38-year-old head coach is leaving Rider after seven seasons to take the same position at Binghamton. Final details were expected to be hammered out early Tuesday and the school was expected to officially make the announcement on Wednesday.
The move gives Dempsey a fresh start as he undertakes a massive rebuilding project. Binghamton was 2-29 last season and at at one point lost 27 consecutive games. The Bearcats also have seen three freshmen from last year's team transfer while two other high school players have rescinded on their commitments after former coach Mark Macon was fired.
While the outlook at Binghamton may be bleak now, many believe it could eventually be the elite program in the America East Conference. The Bearcats have strong facilities and drew approximately 4,500 people per game last season despite their poor on court product.
The location should also provide an opportunity for Dempsey, a Scranton native to tap into his Pennsylvania roots and build a program from the ground up.
Dempsey was 119-105 during his seven years at Rider with three postseason appearances.
Look for Rider Associate Head Coach Kevin Baggett to be a strong candidate to fill Dempsey's position with the Broncs as well as NJIT head coach Jim Engles, who was a finalist for the vacancy at Binghamton.
Your thoughts on Dempsey to Binghamton? Be heard in the comments below...
