St. John Fisher women's basketball coach Phil Kahler is back with his team.

Kahler, now in his 33rd season at the school, suffered a heart attack in late October and missed his team's first eight games. He will make his return to the bench at 6 p.m. on Friday, as Fisher (5-3) travels to Rochester Institute of Technology for the Empire 8 Conference season-opener for both teams.

Over his 33-year career, Kahler has compiled an NCAA record of 736-148. No coach in NCAA basketball history "“ Division I, II or III -- men's or women's "“ has coached longer than Kahler and won a better percentage of games. His 736 victories are the most by a Division III coach, and his efforts have established Fisher as the all-time winningest women's basketball program.

Last season, Kahler led Fisher to a 25-3 overall record and an undefeated season in the Empire 8. He has led Fisher to two national runner-up finishes and 31 consecutive winning seasons, including 27 seasons with 20 or more wins.

"It's great to be back," says Kahler, who will continue attending physical therapy three times a week. "It was difficult being away from the college and not being about to work with our players, but I am excited to be back and am looking forward to the rest of the season."