The University of Arkansas introduced Jimmy Dykes as the new head coach of the women's basketball team Sunday night.
Dykes graduated from Arkansas in 1985 and was a three-year letterman under coach Eddie Sutton. He then became an assistant coach for the Razorbacks.
Dykes followed up his time in Fayetteville with assistant coaching jobs at at Sacramento State University, Appalachian State University, University of Kentucky, University of Arkansas-Little Rock and Oklahoma State.
Dykes has no head coaching experience.
“After meeting with him and discussing our program, it was clear to me that Jimmy Dykes is not only the best leader for our women’s basketball program, but also the best Coach for the student-athletes in our program,” Long said. “I have known Jimmy for many years but learned of his passion and commitment to his alma mater, the University of Arkansas, when I arrived on campus. I have always respected his tremendous basketball knowledge and his understanding of the game, but as I got to know Jimmy better, l became aware of his strong coaching background including his tenures at some of the nation’s top college basketball programs.”
Dykes, 52, joined ESPN in 1995 and has been a basketball analyst with the network ever since.
Dykes replaces Tom Collen, who was let go earlier this month after seven seasons with the team.