How basketball has strengthened the bond between Ole Miss assistant coach Wes Flanigan and his son Allen

Ole Miss men’s hoops is off to a strong start and a father/son duo is a big reason for that. The bond between Ole Miss guard Allen Flanigan and his father/Rebels’ assistant coach Wes Flanigan is stronger thanks to their time on the court. While it’s Wes and Allen Flanigan’s first year in Oxford together, they have plenty of experience learning from each other.

The bond between Wes and Allen started in Little Rock. Later on, Wes was coaching the Trojans while Allen was finishing high school. The two were split apart for Allen’s senior season while his dad was an assistant as Auburn. Allen soon followed his father to The Plains.

“When he came to Auburn, it was almost like we got to know each other again since he was gone for a year.” Wes Flanigan said.

Despite some growing pains, The father/son duo became stronger. Wes reflected on a tough time he went through as a player at Auburn that also gave him perspective.

“I went through cancer at Auburn as a player,” Wes said. “My parents couldn’t be there physically for me since they had to work. They were there mentally, but not there physically. There were times I really struggled.”

That experience made Wes be there for his son even more. When Allen tore his achilles going into his junior year and was sidelined for months, his dad was there. Wes was also there as Allen thrived in 114 games for the Tigers.

“My dad has been a huge factor in me developing my game,” Allen said. “Critiquing my game, picking out the pros and cons and working on them.”

After four years and back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances together, Wes left Auburn to join Chris Beard’s staff at Ole Miss. Allen hit the portal and had plenty of offers. Wes gave him space and weighed his options, but Allen wanted to follow his dad.

“At that point you understand your son isn’t just sick and tired of you. He’s not just trying to get away from you,” Wes said.

Being around family is huge for Allen. It means everything to him.

“Allen doesn’t talk a lot but he’ll let you know through his actions how he feels and that day he let me know how he feels about our relationship moving forward,” Wes said.

This is Allen’s final year of eligibility. It’s off to a good start as he’s averaging 18 points per game for the Rebels so far. Regardless of the outcome of this year’s journey, his dad’s message remains the same.

“Whether you’re a lottery pick, a guy who plays 10 years overseas or you don’t play again at all, your dad is proud of you,” Wes said.

“My dad means the world to me. He puts a lot in me through basketball and life. He helps me become a better man, person and player.”