Early indications are the new assistant will be Southern Idaho head coach Jim Thrash. If true, this is a very smart move. Thrash is a longtime Keady friend, runs a very similar system at Southern Idaho, and is familiar with Greg McQuay from coaching him the past two seasons.

Thrash called Keady a few years ago for help with strength and conditioning, and Keady responded by sending Todd Foster out west to install Purdue's program. When Greg McQuay was looking for a junior college, Keady got him in contact with Southern Idaho and Thrash. And for good reason. Thrash is a defensive coach.

Southern Idaho finished with the 4th best defense among Division I junior colleges during the 97-98 season, only allowing 64.6 points per game. Southern Idaho also spent a majority of the 96-97 season ranked #1 in defense.

Thrash's philosophy is "if you don't like to play defense, you better get used to sitting on the bench." Thrash's experience with McQuay, knowing his strengths and weaknesses, should also lead to a smoother transition in the post next year. On a related note, Greg McQuay finished ranked by Prep Stars as the 34th best junior college player.

If reports are true, Jim Thrash will be an excellent addition to the Boilermaker men's program and should be a real recruiting plus, regardless if Thrash is given off-campus recruiting responsibilities. According to the Star, an announcement could come later today.