Sonny Allen facts for kids
Allen coaching at ODU
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| Biographical details | |
|---|---|
| Born | March 8, 1936 Moundsville, West Virginia |
| Died | September 11, 2020 (aged 84) Reno, Nevada |
| Playing career | |
| 1956–1960 | Marshall |
| Position(s) | Point guard |
| Coaching career (HC unless noted) | |
| 1960–1965 | Marshall (assistant) |
| 1965–1975 | Old Dominion |
| 1975–1980 | SMU |
| 1980–1987 | Nevada |
| 1988 | Las Vegas Silver Streaks |
| 1989–1990 | Santa Barbara Islanders |
| 1997–1998 | Dallas Mavericks (assistant) |
| 1998 | Detroit Shock (assistant) |
| 1999–2001 | Sacramento Monarchs |
| Head coaching record | |
| Overall | 613–383 |
| Accomplishments and honors | |
| Championships | |
| NCAA Division II (1975) | |
Sonny Allen (born March 8, 1936 – died September 11, 2020) was a famous American college basketball coach. He led many teams to success during his long career. He was known for his smart strategies and for helping players improve.
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Sonny Allen's Coaching Journey
Sonny Allen started his coaching career in college basketball. He worked with several teams, helping them win many games. His journey shows how dedication can lead to great achievements in sports.
Leading the Old Dominion Monarchs
Sonny Allen was the head coach at Old Dominion University from 1965 to 1975. This was a very successful time for him. He guided the Monarchs to six NCAA College/Division II Tournaments.
In 1975, his team won the championship, which was a huge accomplishment! They also finished second in 1971 and fourth in 1976. These results showed his skill as a coach.
Coaching at SMU and Nevada
After Old Dominion, Sonny Allen moved to Southern Methodist University (SMU). He coached the SMU Mustangs from 1975 to 1980. Later, he became the head coach at the University of Nevada, Reno. He led the Nevada Wolf Pack team from 1980 to 1987.
Coaching in Women's Basketball
Sonny Allen also coached in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). This showed his ability to coach different types of teams.
With the Sacramento Monarchs
From 1999 to 2001, Sonny Allen was the head coach for the Sacramento Monarchs. This was a professional women's basketball team. Coaching in the WNBA was another important part of his career.
Later Life and Legacy
Sonny Allen passed away on September 11, 2020, in Reno, Nevada. He had Parkinson's Disease. He is remembered as a great coach who made a big impact on basketball. His teams won many games, and he helped many players grow.
