WSU men’s basketball hires conditioning coach

Washington State men’s basketball coach Ernie Kent announced Wednesday that Scott Thom will join the program as the Cougars’ strength and conditioning coach.

Thom spent four years as strength and conditioning coach for Mike Montgomery’s basketball program at California prior to joining the staff of the recently hired Kent.

“Scott has the experience and passion to help elevate our basketball program to another level when it comes to strength and conditioning,” Kent said in a press release. “Having worked at this level in a successful basketball program like Cal’s, he will blend nicely with our outstanding strength and conditioning team we already have in place here.”

Thom was a member of a strength and conditioning staff led by Mike Blasquez and Hank Behrens at Cal. Montgomery retired at last season’s conclusion after leading the Golden Bears to the postseason in all four years Thom was a member of the program.

WSU pitcher Hamilton honored

Washington State closer Ian Hamilton was named a Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American by Collegiate Baseball.

The native of Vancouver, Washington, saved a school-record 15 games to lead the Pac-12. He appeared in 28 games and posted a 2-2 record and 2.70 ERA. He is the first Cougar in five years to earn the honor.

Receiver Flowers assigned to Shock

The Spokane Shock announced the assignment of veteran wide receiver Nichiren Flowers.

The Shock also placed defensive back Josh Pleasant on injured reserve and put defensive back JT Fitzgerald on inactive reserve.