OWENSBORO, Ky. – Kentucky Wesleyan men's basketball head coach Drew Cooper has been selected to serve as the head coach of the USA U23 team at the 2027 Barbados Basketball Festival, July 6-12, in Barbados.
Cooper will represent the United States through PhDHoops, an organization that provides opportunities for coaches and players to compete in international basketball events. The 2027 Barbados Basketball Festival will feature male teams ranging from U14 through U23, with the tournament scheduled for July 7-11.

"The international game seems like it has more and more influence on the game we play here. I'm excited to coach in a different atmosphere with FIBA rules and against teams that are doing unique things on the floor. I'm looking forward to representing Kentucky Wesleyan and even our nation next summer. I'm appreciative to Richie Schueler for the opportunity and fully believe in what PHD Hoops is doing." 

"Everything we've learned about Coach Cooper screams winner, leader, and man of character, which are all qualities we look for in our coaches," said Richie Schueler, founder of PhD Hoops USA. "I'm excited to add him to our staff and give our young athletes an incredible international experience."

Cooper enters his ninth season at the helm of the Kentucky Wesleyan men's basketball program and owns a 215-141 record in 13 seasons as a collegiate head coach. A three-time conference Coach of the Year, Cooper led the Panthers to the 2024 Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) regular-season championship and their first NCAA Division II Tournament appearance since 2017.

"This is a well-deserved honor for Coach Cooper and a great reflection on our basketball program," said Jason Vittone, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics. "Drew represents Kentucky Wesleyan with class and competitiveness every day, and this is a tremendous opportunity."

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