Fran Dunphy has hit a milestone. With Wednesday night's victory over La Salle, the Penn basketball coach has led the Quakers to their 300th victory under his watch. While Dunphy has shown his typical humility about reaching the new mark, his accomplishment deserves recognition and celebration.
The coach has become more than just a fixture of the Palestra and Penn athletics; he has become a primary fixture in the fabric of this University. The Athletic Department should also be lauded for its commitment to Dunphy over the past 16 years -- even after a tough first season in 1989-1990.
He has become the winningest coach in Penn basketball history and has the second-most wins of any coach in the Ivy League. He has more undefeated Ancient Eight seasons than any other coach, having amassed five in his career, and has led the Quakers to nine Ivy League championships.
His character and committment to community service, as well, are something to be admired -- even the Fox television anchorman who broadcast the replay last night ended his commentary by calling Dunphy "a great guy."
The respect he is shown by his players is only matched by the respect they receive from him.
Here's to even more great years to come.
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