Millikin University Big Blue Men’s Basketball has announced an addition to their coaching staff, with Shea Cupples joining the Big Blue as an assistant coach ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Cupples joins first-year head coach Tom Noonan’s staff after one year as the lead assistant coach at NCAA Division III institution Lake Forest College. In 2025-26, he helped guide the Foresters to a 16-10 record, with an 11-5 mark in Midwest Conference play. LFC had an offense that ranked in the top 25 in DIII, and Cupples aided in the development of two First Team All-MWC selections.

Prior to his year at Lake Forest, Cupples served as a graduate manager at Division I Ball State University. In addition to serving as the director of team summer camps, he created and implemented player development plans, as well as working in video analysis and scouting preparation. Over his two seasons, Cupples worked with one All-MAC second team selection, and two All-MAC honorable mention selections.

A central Illinois native and graduate of Normal West, Cupples knows the CCIW well, playing his college ball at North Central College. With the Cardinals, he played in 70 career games, recording over 500 points, 240 rebounds, and 160 assists. He was a two-time team captain, and a two-time CCIW R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Award winner.

Cupples earned his Master of Arts in Athletic Coaching Education from Ball State University in 2025, and his Bachlor of Science in Sport Management from North Central College in 2023.

https://athletics.millikin.edu/news/2026/6/17/cupples-to-join-mens-basketball-staff.aspx