From Charlotte Observer

Area coaches up for award
INSIDE THE REGION JIM UTTER

The Carolinas have been home to some of best basketball this season among mid-major schools, and three area coaches have been recognized for their success.

Appalachian State's Houston Fancher, Davidson's Bob McKillop and Winthrop's Gregg Marshall are among the 15 finalists for the Hugh Durham Mid-Major Coach of the Year award, which will be presented during the Final Four in Atlanta.

Fancher, in his seventh year with the school, has led the Mountaineers to a 22-6 record, 13-3 in the Southern Conference. Should Appalachian State beat UNC Greensboro tonight, the Mountaineers will lock up the North Division title and match the school record for victories in a season.

McKillop, in his 17th season with the Wildcats, is enjoying one of his most successful seasons. Davidson is 24-4, 15-1 in the Southern Conference and has locked up the South Division title. Davidson hosts conference rival Furman tonight in the Wildcats' final home game of the season.

Marshall, who has led the Eagles to a 24-4 record and the school's sixth Big South Conference regular-season championship, is trying to guide the team to its seventh NCAA tournament appearance in his nine seasons as coach.

Winthrop plays its final regular-season game Saturday at Coastal Carolina.