MONROE, La. – The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) has appointed Ryan Cross as the ninth head coach of its men’s basketball program, Director of Athletics SJ Tuohy announced Wednesday, March 25. Cross returns to Monroe after successful coaching stints at UAB and previous years with ULM.
"Ryan Cross is one of the nation's elite recruiters and roster builders. His vision and community connection make him the perfect leader for our program," Tuohy said.
Cross arrives with over 20 years of coaching experience highlighted by a stellar stint as UAB's Associate Head Coach. His leadership contributed to UAB’s 145-62 record, two conference titles, and notable talent development, including Jordan Walker, a 2022 Conference USA Player of the Year, and Yaxel Lendeborg, AAC Defensive Player of the Year in 2024 and 2025.
Previously at ULM (2012–20), Cross played a pivotal role during the program’s most successful Sun Belt Conference years, recruiting award-winning players such as Justin Roberson, Michael Ertel, and Daishon Smith. CoachStat.net recognized him among mid-major basketball's top recruiters during this tenure.
Cross's career spans college, junior college, and high-school programs. His achievements include guiding Barton County Community College to a 35-3 record as a rookie head coach, leading Chipola College to an 80-42 mark, and fostering NBA talent like Paul Millsap at Louisiana Tech. He also made history coaching Caldwell Parish High School to multiple postseason appearances.
