UAB Assistant Ryan Cross Named Head Coach at Louisiana-Monroe

Louisiana-Monroe (ULM) has selected Ryan Cross as its next head men’s basketball coach, bringing him back to a program where he previously made a significant impact as an assistant. Cross, currently the associate head coach at UAB, will return to lead the Warhawks, according to reports.

A Proven Track Record

Cross’s appointment marks a return to ULM, where he served as an assistant coach under Keith Richard. During that time, he was instrumental in recruiting seven All-Sun Belt Conference players, including a Defensive Player of the Year and a Freshman of the Year. He also coached players who led the Sun Belt Conference in scoring.

Prior to his return to ULM, Cross spent six seasons at UAB under head coach Andy Kennedy. During his tenure in Birmingham, the Blazers amassed a 125-50 record, capturing Conference USA and American Conference Tournament titles, and earning two trips to the NCAA Tournament. UAB also made a postseason run in the NIT, reaching the quarterfinals.

Early Coaching Career and JUCO Success

Cross began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Buffalo, followed by an assistant role at Barton County Community College. He achieved early success as a head coach at Barton County, leading the team to a 35-3 record in his only season. He later served as head coach at Chipola College, compiling an 80-42 record over four seasons.

“During that stretch he helped the Blazers amass a 125-50 record.”

Crossing Back Over: Ryan Cross Returns to Lead ULM, WarhawkReport

Acknowledged Past Challenges

Cross previously admitted to committing wire fraud while coaching at Barton County Community College in 2006, resulting in a four-month federal prison sentence and three years of probation.

Recent UAB Achievements

At UAB, Cross played a key role in developing players like Yaxel Lendeborg, who was named AAC Defensive Player of the Year, and Jordan Walker, a two-time Conference USA Player of the Year. The Blazers set a program record with 29 wins in 2022-23 and reached the NIT Championship game.

Cross’s return to Louisiana-Monroe signals a new chapter for the Warhawks program, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success.