Western Courier

Issue date: 4/18/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Adam Sacasa Derek Thomas has spent the majority of his time with his family after resigning as Western Illinois' men's head basketball coach in March.

Recently, Western Illinois signed new men's head basketball coach Jim Molinari, but previous coach Derek Thomas is back on the job hunt within the coaching ranks.

Thomas left behind a 40-104 record at Western with five seasons at the helm. Since leaving the Leathernecks, Thomas has made strides to pursue other ventures in collegiate basketball.

"I've been traveling, looking at a few openings," Thomas said. "There have been some assistant coaching and head coaching, but I haven't decided yet."

Before serving as head coach for the 'Necks, Thomas held a scouting position with the Atlanta Hawks. He has not ruled out the possibility of returning to a scouting stint.

"You know, I have to see what is the best opportunity for me," Thomas said. "I have to make a decision that is best for me and my family."

When not on the job hunt, Thomas said he has been enjoying the time off to spend with his family. He has also enjoyed visiting with players and spending more time with his children.

"(My family) loves that I have more time to spend with them," Thomas said. "We have just been enjoying each other and it is good to have this time off with signing day being so close; it's good to relax. A couple of players have stopped by too, and it's good to talk to them and see them again."

With the new coach here at Western, the old coach may become a new coach somewhere else.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools