Arkansas State University turned to the Rick Pitino coaching tree for its new men's basketball coach.
The Red Wolves introduced Louisville assistant coach Mike Balado as their new head coach Monday at a news conference in Jonesboro.
Balado, 41, comes to Arkansas State after spending the past four seasons as an assistant coach at Louisville. He becomes ASU's 16th head basketball coach.
"It's a great tribute to our emerging brand that we can hire a lead assistant from an elite program," ASU Athletic Director Terry Mohajir said. "Without a doubt, I think there is no one in the country more prepared to lead our program at this time than Mike Balado.