LIVINGSTON, Ala.  – The University of West Alabama Department of Athletics has announced the hiring of Phillip Shumpert as Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach effective June 1, 2008.  He replaces J. Wright, who took a similar position at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in April.

Shumpert, 33, joins the UWA staff after serving as assistant coach at Lawson State Community College in the Birmingham, Ala. in 2007-08. While at LSCC, Shumpert coordinated all of the recruiting efforts along with overseeing the strength and conditioning and individual workout programs for the Cougars.  He was instrumental in leading LSCC to a 24-8 overall mark and a 13-3 clip in the Alabama Community College Conference.  Prior to his arrival at LSCC, the squad posted back-to-back 11-win seasons.  Shumpert aided in the development of two members of the Cougar squad that earned All-Region status this past hoops season.  His duties also included coordination and implementation of practice schedules and game planning.  While at LSCC, Shumpert also served as Assistant Director of Residential Life.

 “I am very excited about Phillip (Shumpert) joining our staff,” said UWA men’s basketball coach Eddie McCarter.  “He has some great contacts around the Southeast along with his ability to put together game plans and help me with practice preparation," said Carter. 

A native of Fulton, Miss., Shumpert has eight years combined collegiate and professional experience as a player, scout and coach.  He started his playing career at Itawamba Agriculture High School in Fulton, Miss., earning All-State honors twice for the Indians.  Shumpert attended Itawamba Community College and John C. Calhoun Community College before signing with Albany State University.  He was named All-State Honorable Mention at ICC.

 Shumpert’s basketball coaching stops include the Anderson (SC) Heat of the World Basketball Association in 2006 and a two-year stint at Columbia (GA) High School.  He has also served as a camp coordinator for the European Pro Showcase.