HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (AP) Speedy Claxton is taking over as basketball coach at Hofstra, where he starred as a point guard in the late 1990s and has served as an assistant for the past seven years.

Claxton was introduced Thursday by the Long Island-based Colonial Athletic Association school at its on-campus basketball arena, which opened during Claxton's senior season.

"This was my dream job," said the 42-year-old Claxton, who pushed through tears and acknowledged fighting nerves during his introductory news conference. "They say it's the arena that Speedy built."