Emory University assistant men's basketball coach Chris  Murphy has resigned his position to take over the head coaching duties at Union College.  

Murphy joined the Emory coaching staff in July of 2009 and, during his four years with the Eagles, helped guide the program to an overall record of 74-28.  This past year, Emory tied for first place in the University Athletic Association, the program's first league crown since 1990 with a 10-4 ledger.  In addition, the Eagles earned their first berth to the NCAA Tournament since 1990 and advanced to the second round after defeating Randolph College in its opening tilt. Emory closed out the 2012-13 campaign with an overall slate of 20-7, the

Chris Murphy

third time in school history and the second time during Murphy's stint with the program that it had won 20 or more games.  In 2010-11, the Eagles finished 20-5, the first 20-win campaign since 1989-90.  In addition, Emory finished second in the UAA with an 11-3 effort, the second-highest league win total in school annals.  Murphy was part of two UAA Coaching Staff of the Year honorees and the 74 wins accumulated while on the sidelines marked the most productive four-year stretch in school history. 

While at Emory, he helped mentor former standout Austin Claunch, a three-time first-team All-UAA choice, as well as recently graduated Alex Greven and rising senior Jake Davis, both of whom are three-time all-conference selections.

"We are extremely excited for Chris and his opportunity to lead the basketball program at his alma matter," said Emory head coach Jason Zimmerman.  "Chris played a vital role in the success and growth of Emory basketball over the last four years which has prepared him for this next step.   Union College hired a very good basketball coach but even a better person."

Murphy returns to Schenectady, NY, after a stellar career at Union where he played from 2002-03 through 2005-06.   The Dutchmen won 71 games during his four years and won ECAC and Liberty League championships.  He was team MVP in 2004-05 and paced the team in assists the following season.

"While I am excited and humbled by this opportunity to coach at my alma mater, it is difficult to leave Emory where we've experienced tremendous success over the past 4 years," Murphy said.  "Emory is an incredible place, but what makes it truly special, are the people. The relationships that I've developed with faculty, staff and most importantly, the student-athletes, are what I've enjoyed most and hope they continue.