University of Hawaii Wahine basketball head coach Vince Goo announced today that assistant coach Jon Newlee has accepted the women’s basketball head coaching position at Idaho State. Newlee just completed his third season at UH where his duties included recruiting, scouting and directing the team’s post players.

“I’d like to thank Vince for the opportunity here,” Newlee said. “It’s been a great three years in Hawaii, but the time is right for a change in my career and I’m excited about this new position.”

During Newlee’s stay at UH, the Rainbow Wahine won 20 or more games in each season and earned three straight Women’s National Invitation Tournament berths.

“Jon has been a big part of our success the last three years,” Goo said. “His elevation to head coach speaks well for his ability and for our program. We wish him the best of luck.”

Prior to joining Hawaii, Newlee served as the top assistant at SMU (1990-99) and Saint Mary’s College (1984-86). He earned his first head coaching job in 1987 at Southwestern College in Chula Vista, Calif., where he directed the men’s squad for three seasons.

In 1999 Newlee replaced former Rainbow Wahine assistant coach George Wolfe, who just completed his third season as head coach of Big Sky rival Portland State. Idaho State finished last season 10-17 overall and 3-11 in the Big Sky under interim head coach Lynn Kennedy.

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