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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Head coach Lamont Paris announced the hiring of Will Bailey as assistant coach on Friday to complete his staff.

The coaching veteran returns to Columbia after spending the 2023-24 season as an assistant at Loyola University Chicago.

“I’ve really gotten to know Will over the years and, in that time, I’ve found him to be a man of tremendous character,” said Paris. “His work ethic and ability to forge incredibly meaningful relationships with players and coaches alike has really helped him in recruiting talented players. Will is no stranger to winning or to hard work and I look forward to adding his positive energy and winning mentality to our family!”

Bailey helped the Ramblers to a 23-10 record and a 15-3 mark in the program’s second season in the Atlantic 10, earning the team postseason bid to the NIT.

Bailey spent the 2022-23 season in his second stint as an assistant at St. Louis, going 21-12 with a 12-6 mark in the A-10.

“I couldn’t be more excited to return to Columbia and be a part of coach Paris’ staff,” said Bailey. “He has done such a good job the last two seasons and the upward trajectory of the program is something I can’t wait to be a part of. I am thankful to him for this opportunity. The SEC has become one of the best leagues in the country and I look forward to helping South Carolina contend for championships and postseason play. There’s a ton of positive momentum for the program right now, and I’m ready to hit the ground running with the guys soon.”

Known for his work with guards, he was instrumental in the emergence of All-Atlantic 10 guard Javon Bess, the 2019 A-10 Defensive Player of the Year. Bailey helped Bess improve his offensive game as well, and as a senior, Bess led the team in scoring averaging 15.3 points per game with 66 made 3s.

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