Carrollton, GA October 7, 2005 – When mens basketball practice begins next week at the University of West Georgia, a familiar face will be absent from the practice floor. West Georgia Head Coach and Athletic Director Ed Murphy revealed Thursday that he will next week begin treatment for cancer.
Murphy said that the cancer was discovered as he was undergoing tests related to the prostate cancer that sidelined him during the 2002-03 season.
They found a spot on my lung, about the size of a quarter, said Murphy. He added, The doctors tell me that it is in its earliest stages and is completely operable. I am very lucky that they found it when they did.
Murphy will meet next week with doctors at Atlantas Emory University. His expected surgery and recuperation will force him away from his day-to-day duties at West Georgia for at least a month.
I have two very capable assistants, said Murphy, referring to associate athletic directors Mike Cooney and Gloria Laseter. Gloria will handle everything on the business end, and Mike will take care of everything pertaining to athletics.
Beyond his associate athletic director duties, Cooney will also have the responsibility of running UWGs mens basketball program while Murphy is away. Preseason practice begins for the Braves on October 15.