Alabama hires female former ABA coach

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) Ashley McElhiney, the first woman to coach a men&#39;s pro basketball team, has been hired as director of basketball operations for the Alabama women&#39;s team.<br> <br> McElhiney, 23, joins first-year coach Stephany Smith&#39;s staff after a one-year stint as head coach of the Nashville Rhythm of the American Basketball Association.<br> <br> McElhiney guided the Rhythm to a 21-10 record and a berth in the ABA playoffs in their inaugural season. She left the same week the Rhythm owners declined the playoff berth.<br> <br> ``I have always been impressed with her and hoped to have the opportunity to hire her,&#39;&#39; Smith said. ``She is a very driven person with a positive demeanor and a true passion for the game of basketball.&#39;&#39;<br> <br> A former Vanderbilt point guard, McElhiney ranked second nationally in assists as a senior and finished as the school&#39;s all-time leader.<br> <br> ``It is exciting to be back in the SEC, and I look forward to being a part of such a talented and experienced staff,&#39;&#39; McElhiney said.<br> <br> (Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

http://accesswdun.com/article/2005/6/133668