MTSU, Murfreesboro and Rutherford County welcomes new men's basketball coach Nick McDevitt. There was a special press conference in Murphy Center at 10:00 o'clock Tuesday morning (3/27/2018). Both the media and Blue Raider supporters were on hand. Cheer leaders lined the entrance while the Blue Raider pep band played as a smiling McDevitt entered the arena.

MTSU President Dr. Sidney McPhee went on and on about, "I have never experienced such a person. He got me charged-up the first-time I met him. Nick is powerful and personable."

Dr. McPhee noted, "He's a real Lightning Arestor!" (For those who don't get that, Lightning is the name of the horse that is MTSU's mascot)

It's been a whirlwind week for Nick McDevitt. MTSU Athletic Director Chris Massaro picked up McDevitt in Asheville and they flew to the 'Boro for a tour last Thursday (3/22/2018). On Friday (3/23/2018), back in Asheville, the McDevitt's second child was born.

The former UNC-Asheville Head Coach told the supporters at Murphy Center on Tuesday morning, "I am an alumni of UNCA, played on the team, have coached there, my family is there--and it would take a powerful city and school to draw me away. It did, and MTSU and Murfreesboro are for me."

The new head men's basketball coach looked around the arena and said, "Where's Coach Dean Hayes? He's been here 50-years. That's my goal, if you'll let me."

Nick felt like an old friend as he commented, "My first connection was with the team. They have a passion for this university and they're talented."

Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland held a reception for McDevitt Monday night (3/27/2018). They mayor said, "He is genuine and everything about his is real. Nick will do well here."

Hear the LIVE broadcast on WGNS

Chip Walters, the Voice of the Blue Raiders and Kyle Turnham anchor coverage from the Murphy Center. Plus, here the first public comments from the coach, University President Sydney McPhee and Athletics Director Chris Massaro: