CHICO, Calif. – If Justin Argenal’s coaching career is anything like his playing career at Chico State, the University of Mississippi will have a tireless worker with a huge will to win as a graduate assistant next season. Argenal has accepted a graduate assistant position at the University, known by most as Ole Miss, and will start on June 1.

“I’m really excited to start pursuing my coaching career. I can’t wait to get started,” said Argenal. “Spending time with all of the great coaches there is going to allow me to learn a ton. I feel really fortunate that they’ve given me this opportunity and I’m going to work hard to learn as much as I can.”

The University of Mississippi is coached by Andy Kennedy, a 2008-09 National Coach of the Year finalist, the 2007 Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year, and the 2006 Big East Coach of the Year. The Rebels are 61-39 in three seasons under Kennedy’s leadership.

“Justin has a great future ahead of him in coaching and we are all excited about the opportunity he has at The University of Mississippi,” said Wildcats Head Coach Greg Clink. “To start his career at such a prestigious university, in a program with such a rich tradition and in one of the top basketball conferences in the country is a tremendous opportunity.  He will get a wealth of experience and he will learn a lot.  The coaching staff at Ole Miss is lucky to have him on staff.”

Argenal, graduating this month with a degree in psychology and a minor in coaching, wrapped up his four-year Chico State basketball career this season as the school’s career record holder in steals and assists.