BUIES CREEK, N.C. – Michael Slonaker has been named assistant men's basketball coach at Campbell University, head coach Robbie Laing announced. The son of former Mercer University head coach Mark Slonaker, he replaces Lorenzo Watkins, who accepted a position at South Carolina State University.

"We're really pleased to have Michael Slonaker on our staff," said Coach Laing, who is in his fifth year at Campbell. "Michael is very familiar with our league, having played for his father at Mercer. He's very enthusiastic and has a great gift for dealing with young people. Having lived in a coach's household growing up, he'll have very little adjustment in his chosen career."

A 2007 Mercer graduate, Slonaker served as assistant coach in 2007-08 at Shorter College, which posted the second-highest wins total (19) in school history, while having the most improved record (13 more wins) in the NAIA ranks.

During Slonaker's year at Shorter, he helped guide a team that earned a national ranking for the first time in school history, was rated seventh in the nation in defensive field goal percentage, and compiled the fifth-highest team grade-point average in the NAIA. In addition, he coached two all-conference players and an NAIA All-American.

"I have always had the utmost respect for Coach Laing and his program. I am honored to be a part of it," said Slonaker. "I have always appreciated the job (Assistant) Coach (Bobby) Kennen and (Assistant) Coach (Buck) Harris have done and look forward to working with them and learning from them. I have always heard about the wonderful people in the Buies Creek area and after a short time here, they have definitely lived up to their reputation as a wonderful community in a great family atmosphere."

Slonaker played five years in the Mercer program, including one red-shirt season. He earned an Atlantic Sun Conference regular season championship ring as a freshman (2002-03) and served as a team captain during his senior campaign (2006-07). He was also an Atlantic Sun All-Academic Team performer.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science with secondary schools teaching certification.

With eight new guys on our roster, Michael gives us something we need -- high-energy on the coaching staff," said Laing. "Michael's forte is directing camps, so that will help our staff as well – not just in the season – but in the summers as well."

Campbell opens the 2008-09 men's basketball season at home on Nov. 15 against Chowan College in an 8:15 p.m. tip-off.