Associated Press
BOONE ó Houston Fancher stepped down as coach at Appalachian State on Monday after nine seasons and no trips to the NCAA tournament.
The school said Fancher had resigned but would be paid through the end of next season, when his contract expires. The move came just over a week after Appalachian State finished a 13-18 season.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to represent Appalachian State University for the past 13 years, including the last nine as head coach,” Fancher said in a statement. “I hope that I have done so with the class and dignity that the position deserves.”
Fancher, promoted to head coach in 2000 after Buzz Peterson left for Tulsa, went 137-136. His best season came in 2006-07 when former West Rowan star Donte Minter and the Mountaineers won a school-record 25 games, captured the San Juan Shootout and made an NIT appearance.
That was the only postseason appearance for Appalachian State, which went 9-11 in league play this season, during Fancher’s tenure.
“He has been a terrific ambassador for ASU, a valued member of the community and an outstanding leader of young men,” Appalachian athletic director Charlie Cobb said. “We wish Coach Fancher nothing but the best in his future endeavors.”