Coach Hopkins Signs Six-Year Deal University of Washington
By Bret Stuter
![Dec 27, 2015; Syracuse, NY, USA; Syracuse Orange interim head coach Mike Hopkins calls out to his team during the second half of a game against the Texas Southern Tigers at the Carrier Dome. Syracuse won the game 80-67. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports Dec 27, 2015; Syracuse, NY, USA; Syracuse Orange interim head coach Mike Hopkins calls out to his team during the second half of a game against the Texas Southern Tigers at the Carrier Dome. Syracuse won the game 80-67. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/564f5c5444b814e59695bbef690ba65342645a942754a07b0e63814c7a326a9c.jpg)
The Plan Takes Shape
Coach Hopkins has spent more than 20 years serving as the assistant coach for the University of Syracuse under venerable coach Jim Boeheim. Boeheim is not the sole brains of the operation and reason for the University of Syracuse’ success. Boeheim recognizes talent around him.
Hopkins, for his part, displayed incredible loyalty to the University of Syracuse. Now, that same loyalty is aligned with the University of Washington.
Mike Hopkins said he wants to have an "unpredictable attack." Adds "The zone is one of the greatest weapons in college basketball."
— Kevin Pelton (@kpelton) March 22, 2017
Abandoning Ship?
And what of the news about players deserting the Huskies? After all, the work will only multiply with each lost player or prospect. Blake Harris wasted no time seeking his release. Michael Porter Jr. has followed Harris’ lead. But, Mike Hopkins said it best.
In terms of retaining recruits, Mike Hopkins says "the poachers are out." Wants recruits who want to be at Washington.
— Kevin Pelton (@kpelton) March 22, 2017
The University of Washington did not enjoy success this season, and the upcoming season may be barren of trophies as well. But there is reason to believe this could be a turning point. Mike Hopkins is here based on what he knows, and not who he knows.
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He has a start with an offer to Mater Dei PG Spencer Freedman for 2018. While a small first step, it comes in his first week. He fears nothing. In the end, that could be the difference maker.