Tad Boyle hires Bill Grier as assistant coach

Colorado head coach Tad Boyle has hired Bill Grier to take over the assistant coaching position vacated by Rodney Billups, according to Pat Rooney of Buffzone. Billups left the staff following their NCAA Tournament loss to become the head coach at the University of Denver.

Grier comes to Colorado from Oklahoma State, where he was a part of Travis Ford's staff that was let go at the end of the year. Previously, he served as the head coach at the University of San Diego, where he recorded a record of 117-144. He led the Toreros to their first NCAA Tournament win when they beat fourth-seeded UConn in 2008.

Prior to his stint in San Diego, he served as an assistant at Gonzaga for 15 years under three different head coaches, including eight years spent as a top assistant. He also served as recruiting coordinator for the Bulldogs, and is credited with Gonzaga's top-15 class in 2007.

Known for his defensive mind, Grier is the first new addition to Tad Boyle's staff. His blue-collar attitude should fit right in with the rest of the staff and his previous head coaching experience is a major plus on the edge of the bench. However, his most important skill will be his recruiting, and it looks like he has extensive experience on the west coast. His connections should serve CU well. Welcome, Coach Grier!