CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - Austin Peay State University assistant women's basketball coach Marcus Payne has resigned to pursue "other professional opportunities and avenues in his life."

That announcement was made Tuesday afternoon by APSU women's basketball coach Carrie Daniels.

Payne just completed his sixth season as an Austin Peay women's basketball assistant, the last four under Daniels. Payne initially was an assistant at APSU from 1994-96 under then-head coach LaDonna McClain and coached Daniels during her final two playing seasons, including APSU's first trip to the NCAA tournament.  

He returned to APSU in 2006 after serving as an assistant at Missouri-Rolla (now Missouri S&T) from 2001-06.  The Lady Govs recently captured their second straight Ohio Valley Conference tournament championship and made their second consecutive NCAA tournament appearance.  

"We are very appreciative of the four years Marcus has provided us here at Austin Peay," said Daniels said. "I am grateful for the efforts he has made towards the successes we have achieved in our program.   

 "We have a long history together and I know we will continue that friendship we have developed over the years. We wish him the best in whatever he chooses to do in the future."

-AP-