Burton Is Titans’ New Men’s Basketball Coach

Fresno State assistant Bob Burton, who has spent most of his career in the community college ranks, was introduced Friday as men’s basketball coach at Cal State Fullerton.

Burton, 57, replaces Donny Daniels, who resigned April 18 to become the top assistant at UCLA after coaching the Titans to a 10-19 record, his best in three seasons at the school.

Fullerton officials declined to reveal details about Burton’s contract other than to say it is a four-year deal that includes a car and performance incentives. Burton’s annual salary is believed to start at about $110,000. Fullerton assistants Jason Levy and Mark Maki are being retained, but Rob Orellana is not, officials said.

Burton was the top assistant for Fresno State Coach Ray Lopes, who played for Burton at West Valley College in Saratoga, Calif., where he coached for 21 seasons. Fresno State was 20-8 last season.

Other finalists for the job were Florida Atlantic Coach Sidney Green, former UCLA assistant Jim Saia and Fairleigh Dickinson Coach Tom Green.

Burton said he intends to install an up-tempo offense, something that Daniels was unable to do. “Basketball was made to be played fast,” said Athletic Director Brian Quinn, who was athletic director at Loyola Marymount when that school, with Paul Westhead as coach, led the nation in scoring. “I’d put my sneakers on right now and play for this coach.”

Fullerton has no scholarships available but has 10 returning players, and Burton said he inherits the right personnel for his philosophy.

“I really believe that kids love to play that way,” he said.

Burton had a 507-167 record at West Valley and sent 180 players to four-year colleges.