THE SIDELINES : K. Davis Jr. to Coach Texas A

Idaho’s Kermit Davis Jr., who took the Vandals to the NCAA playoffs the last two years, today was named the new head basketball coach at Texas A&M; University.

“I’m excited about the opportunity at Texas A&M;,” Davis said. “Southwest Conference basketball has really improved in recent years, and I look forward to helping Texas A&M; move forward in basketball. With a new arena on the horizon, I believe A&M; has made a commitment to move forward.”

Davis was the choice after a nationwide search by Texas A&M; Athletic Director John David Crow to replace interim Coach John Thornton, an athletic department source said. Thornton was named interim coach after Shelby Metcalf was fired in January.