Abdelmassih leaving for St. John’s
Assistant coach Matt Abdelmassih holds up his piece of the net after Iowa State defeated Kansas 70-66 in the 2015 Big 12 Championship final on March 14 at the Sprint Center in Kansas City, Mo.
March 31, 2015
ISU assistant basketball coach and head recruiter Matt Abdelmassih announced via Twitter that he is leaving Iowa State for a position at St. John’s.
Former St. John’s and NBA player Chris Mullin accepted the head coaching job for the Red Storm earlier in the week. Abdelmassih will take a similar position at St. John’s as he had at Iowa State.
Abdelmassih, a former St. John’s student assistant, was responsible for bringing in many of Iowa State’s star transfers such as Royce White, DeAndre Kane, Dustin Hogue, Bryce Dejean-Jones and Jameel McKay.
His statement on Twitter is as follows:
“Here is to the last 5 years……
From the accomplishments to the works-in-progress, to all the amazing people I was fortunate to develop relationships with. We’ve had so many incredible moments and they all circle back to one person, Fred Hoiberg. Without Fred, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
I wouldn’t have met the best thing that’s ever happened to me, my wife Kelly. I wouldn’t have had the honor to climb on a ladder and cut down the net — twice — winning two [Big 12] championships. I wouldn’t have had the honor to work with so many great kids and coaches who have become life long friends.
I wouldn’t have experienced one of the most impressive turnarounds in college basketball bringing Iowa State to national prominence. And I can’t forget Hilton Magic … my ears will always ring when someone brings up Hilton Coliseum to me. All of these amazing things happened because of one person. This isn’t easy. Actually this is ridiculously hard leaving a place, and a person, that I truly have deep feelings for. All I can say is Thank You. Thanks for being so supportive, being so welcoming, and passionate.
I am going back to work at my alma mater St. John’s, a place that holds a special place in my heart. Make no mistake — I will always have loyalty toward Iowa State and will always bleed cardinal and gold. I can go on and on especially about Fred, but it will never be farewell, only see ya later. I am certain our paths will cross again. Much love to everyone that I was fortunate to have met and spend time with. Go Cyclones & Red Storm!”
