Joey Ramirez, who earned Western State Conference co-Player of the Year honors for Ventura College in 1993-94, has been hired as the Pirates' assistant coach, according to head coach and athletic director Will Cowen.

"There's several reasons why it's the ideal fit for VC," said Cowen. "The first reason is history, his legacy as a player, and the second is he's become an outstanding coach since playing here."

In the process, Ramirez stepped down as Oak Park boys' basketball head coach. He earned Tri-Valley Coach of the Year honors in 2007-08, having guided the Eagles to a league title and a 22-8 record. Oak Park was 16-11 last season.

Former VC assistant Jon Wyers was hired as Villanova Prep boys' basketball coach in April.

More to come on this developing story.