Big Knight for Herb Magee

Coach will become winningest coach in NCAA history with next victory

Philadelphia University basketball coach Herb Magee is just one win away from becoming the winningest coach in NCAA history.

Magee, who's marking 43 years at the university as a coach, tied former Indiana coach Bobby Knight at 902 wins in a victory over Post University on Saturday.

Now he's set to surpass that milestone in a home game against Goldey-Beacom College Tuesday night. But Magee's not focused on accolades, he's worried about the game.

"I think [the milestone] will be very high, but not right now," Magee said. "We're trying to concentrate on this season. The number one focus has been with this team."

The PhilaU Rams (22-6 overall) are fighting to make it into the NCAA tourney and win the CACC Conference. The coach says when the season's all said and done he'll reflect on the wins.

"When the season's over I go to the coach's convention or if I'm down the shore in the summer with my wife and kids and grandkids, then…it'll be a big deal," Magee said.

Take away the coaching milestones and Magee still stands as a basketball legend. He not only coaches his Division II students, but also greats like Charles Barkley on their free throws.

Magee's been inducted the hall of fame at his high school -- West Catholic -- and college -- Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science, now Philadelphia University. He also has been nominated to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

Tip off against Goldey-Beacom is set for 8 p.m. at PhilaU's main campus in East Falls.

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