[kywldcat01]

It might not have been made public, but this was pretty much a done deal a few days after Henley resigned from Holmes and Booher expressed interest in the job.

From nky.com:

The hottest name in Kentucky high school basketball coaching is the newest coach at Northern Kentucky's most successful program.

Jason Booher, who made history by leading Shelby Valley to All "A" Classic and KHSAA state titles this year, will be the new boys' basketball coach at Holmes. Covington superintedent Lynda Jackson cofirmed the hire this morning.

Jackson made the final decision after a hiring committee made up of Holmes staff narrowed the field of candidates to Booher and Louisville Moore coach Larry Miller.

Jackson said Booher stood out.

"It was a combination of his passion about educating students and his experience of working with a variety of students and players over the years," said Jackson. "He really has a commitment of growing our program from the elementary through the high school and a commitment to working in the community and giving back."

And, obviously, Booher knows the game. In six seasons at Shelby Valley he posted a 160-37 record and four 15th Region titles. During his tenure, the small mountain school won back-to-back All "A" Classic state titles in 2009 and 2010. This year, led by Mr. Basketball Elisha Justice, the Wildcats reached the Sweet Sixteen state finals where they upset Louisville Ballard.

"What was interesting about Jason winning the state title, was that he accomplished the goal with a Class A school," said Jackson. "When you win a state title – like Holmes did – it’s a combination of perseverance and desire and hard work. To get a coach that can bring all those things together, that’s special."

Booher takes over for David Henley, who resigned last month after 13 years at the school to take the head coaching job at North Oldham. Henley led the Bulldogs to four Ninth Region titles in six years and won the 2009 state title.

Jackson said Booher probably will travel to Covington on Tuesday to meet with the team.