The Appalachian State University men's basketball coaches got a pleasant surprise Thursday afternoon when former Mountaineer and current Phoenix Suns assistant coach Alvin Gentry strolled through their office door.

Gentry, who was in North Carolina for a family reunion, decided to make the trip up the Mountain to visit his old stomping grounds and found that while the campus has undergone extensive changes, the area has still maintained its tranquil beauty.

"Driving around campus and looking at all the changes has been incredible," said Gentry gushing with pride. "Appalachian is in beautiful setting and is what a university should be. The way the town is oriented around the campus makes for a great atmosphere and college experience."

"I really appreciate coming back and seeing everything that has happened to the University. It still, to this day, holds a very special place in my heart." Gentry's pride in his alma mater has only increased with the Mountaineers' recent athletic success, especially on the hardwood.

"To do what coach Fancher has done and win 25 games last year and the San Juan Shootout is incredible," said Gentry. "Given the competition, I think that's one of the greatest accomplishments in the history of the program."

"Plus, this arena [The Holmes Center] is as good as any facility I have seen. It feels perfect for Appalachian and is in great shape." Lately, he has also been a fan of the Apps' football success, watching as many games as he can given his schedule, and proudly displaying his national championship gear while telling everyone around the Suns' offices, 'this is what championship football is about.'

He has spent the last 19 years coaching in the NBA, including seven as a head coach. Prior to that, he helped coach Kansas to a national championship in 1988 before following coach Larry Brown to the NBA ranks.

Coincidentally, Gentry first met Brown at Appalachian while Brown was serving as the head coach of the ABA's Carolina Cougars. The NBA has certainly been kind to Gentry over the past two decades. However, part of him still admits to missing aspects the collegiate game, especially the opportunity to mold young men and instill character and values. That being said, he certainly doesn't mind the opportunity to coach some of the world's greatest players including two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash.

"We've got good guys in Phoenix and have won 60 games twice in the last two years. Hopefully this is the year we can get past San Antonio."