Springfield Standard

Missouri State women's basketball team has announced the addition of Jay Spoonhour as an assistant coach to their staff. Head coach Beth Cunningham shared the news, highlighting Spoonhour's extensive coaching experience and his deep connection to Missouri State.

Spoonhour, son of Missouri State coaching legend Charlie Spoonhour, has a long history in coaching with nearly three decades of experience and 225 career wins as a men's head coach. Before joining the Lady Bears, he served as the assistant athletics development director at Missouri State.

His previous roles include being an assistant coach for men's basketball at Missouri State during the 2023-24 season under former coach Dana Ford. He also spent nine seasons leading Eastern Illinois University's men's basketball team from 2012 to 2021.

Before his time at EIU, Spoonhour was involved with several other teams, including Moberly Area Community College, UTSA, and Missouri. His career began with a successful stint at Wabash Valley College where he led the team to a national championship.

Cunningham expressed her enthusiasm about Spoonhour joining the team: "We are extremely excited to welcome Jay to our staff. He immediately adds an extensive amount of coaching experience to our group, and he will be a great source of knowledge for both our staff and players."

Spoonhour's appointment is pending formal approval by the Missouri State Board of Governors in their upcoming meeting.