University of South Alabama head men’s basketball coach Richie Riley has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him with the Jaguars through the 2030 season, Director of Athletics Dr. Joel Erdmann announced on Apr. 14.
The extension comes after a period of notable success for the program under Riley’s leadership, including back-to-back 20-win seasons and a Sun Belt Regular Season Championship in the 2024-25 season—the first since 2009. The team also earned its first National Invitation Tournament berth since 2007.
Erdmann said, “The decision to sign Coach Riley to an extension was a no-brainer. Richie has elevated our men’s basketball program to a championship-caliber level in all facets. His sustained success on the court, combined with the development of his student-athletes outside the gym, makes him the perfect leader for South Alabama men’s basketball. Coach Riley has our department’s full support, and we know that our best days are ahead with him steering the ship.”
Since joining South Alabama, Riley has posted a record of 152-106—third-best in program history—and recently became only the third head coach at South Alabama to reach 150 wins. He is currently the only active Sun Belt Conference head coach with at least 150 wins at his current school and has led his teams to at least a .500 record each season over eight years.
Riley’s teams have been recognized for their defensive strength and efficiency, regularly ranking among national leaders in fewest turnovers and holding opponents to low field goal percentages within conference play. The Jaguars have also developed strong talent during this period; Chaze Harris was named Sun Belt Player of the Year under Riley’s guidance.
“I am very appreciative of President Bonner and Dr. Erdmann for the opportunity to lead a program I love so much,” said Riley. “This is home for me, Jess and our boys, and I’m incredibly thankful for that — especially because of how great this city is and the people who make it special. Being the head coach here means the world to me, and I’m excited to continue building our program and our basketball family. A big thank you to our players and coaching staff — they make this program what it is and make my job so much fun.”
