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FAIRFAX, Va. – George Mason University, donors, media and the community welcomed their new head men's basketball coach, Tony Skinn ('06) with an introductory press conference inside EagleBank Arena on Monday afternoon
 
In a celebratory affair, the event began with a video narrated by Skinn, documenting his basketball journey across the world that ultimately led him back to Mason. The Patriots' 12^th head coach in program history was welcomed on to stage with a standing ovation from the crowd, featuring family, fans and Final Four teammates.
 
George Mason University President Dr. Gregory Washington began with the excitement of having Skinn back in Fairfax.
 
"What an exciting day for George Mason University," Washington said. "We are thrilled to welcome you [Tony] back as our 12^thmen's basketball coach. The initial feedback I got when going through this decision was 'Why Tony Skinn?' to come back to be our coach? And the answer I give you is in the form of a question: Who better? Who better than someone who bleeds Green and Gold?" 
 
President Washington continued with the impact he will have on the program.
 
"Tony Does what Mason does. He teaches. He introduces talent to opportunity. He challenges. He develops. He inspires. He drives. All to prepare leaders in the classroom, on the court and most importantly, in the community. That is why we are so thrilled to have him back at Mason. Welcome home, Tony!"
 
Interim Athletics Director Nena Rogers thanked those in attendance and spoke of why Tony Skinn was the perfect choice for the position.
 
"Throughout this process, Tony displayed all of the attributes we look for in a leader," Rogers said. "In my conversations with the coaches he worked under, here are some of the things they shared with me about Tony: they talked about his integrity, his ferocious and competitive spirit, his tireless work ethic, the elevated expectations for his players- academically and athletically.
 
When I had the pleasure of working with Tony as a student-athlete, there are a couple things I remember: he always had a smile on his face and was always wonderful to work with and engage with."
 
Tony Skinn was welcomed with a resounding cheer from the crowd and began with recognizing his former teammates in the front row and thanked everyone in attendance, beginning with his President Washington, Nena Rogers and his family.
 
"I remember when I got to Fairfax, a kid from D.C. who cared about nothing except hooping and talking trash while doing it, especially to Folarin Campbell," Skinn began with a smile. "Together with my teammates we conquered and created a synergy that would shock the world of basketball and change the rest of our lives.
 
Winning is not easy, but the formula is clear. To recruit the DMV at a high level, to compete for A-10 Championships, to make and win NCAA games, and last but not least, the mentoring of young men. We will play fast, we will fight and we will compete.
 
The history and tradition are a part of the culture that we will build on. And again, I thank everyone in this room for their support and to Mason Nation, it's time to get to work!"