Pat Cunningham reached his 300th career win this past season and is 315-109 overall between Chicago and Trinity. Trinity (Texas) athletics photo

Trinity (Texas) head men's basketball coach Pat Cunningham has been named a Guardian of the Game by the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC).

According to the NABC Web site, "The Guardians Awards recognize NABC coaches who exemplify one of the four Guardians of the Game core values: Advocacy, Leadership, Service and Education."

The recipients were honored last Sunday at the NCAA Men's Final Four in Houston.

Cunningham received the Advocacy Award, which recognizes leadership and guidance on issues affecting the basketball community.

Recently completing his 12th season at the Trinity helm, Cunningham is very active in that community. He has served for four years on the NCAA Division III men's basketball championship committee, and is chair of the NABC committee which selects the outstanding service awards.

Cunningham was instrumental in helping to start the NABC Division III All-Star Game, part of the Division III Final Four weekend.

In addition, Cunningham is Trinity's NCAA compliance officer.

On the court, Cunningham is the winningest men's basketball coach in Trinity history. His teams have amassed a record of 233-97 (.706) over 12 seasons. Cunningham has guided the Tigers to four Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference championships, and six NCAA Division III postseason appearances, including 2009.

The Tigers advanced to the NCAA Elite Eight in 2005. Trinity completed that season with a school-record 25 victories. Cunningham’s teams have produced six 20-win seasons.

Respected by his peers, Cunningham was elected the SCAC Men’s Basketball Coach of the Year on four occasions, in 2000, 2004, 2006 and 2009.