Denton, TX (Sports Network) - North Texas has named Tony Benford its new men's basketball coach.

Benford spent the past four seasons as an assistant at Marquette and has also been an assistant at Nebraska (2006-08), Arizona State (1998-2006) and New Mexico (1992-98).

"I couldn't be more excited about the opportunity of taking over the basketball program at North Texas," Benford said. "My philosophy is all about the players, and we will do everything in ensure that our players grow in the classroom, the community and on the court."

North Texas needed a replacement for Johnny Jones, who left earlier this month to take the vacancy at LSU. Jones spent 11 seasons at North Texas and guided the Mean Green to a record of 190-146 with a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances.

The Sports Network