Alabama State University Athletics proudly announces the hiring of Chris Wright as the new Head Coach of the Hornets Men’s Basketball program. One of the most accomplished and respected coaches in the country, Wright brings a 332–121 career record, a history of transformational success, and a championship-driven approach to Bama State.
“Chris Wright represents exactly what we were looking for a proven winner, a builder of programs, and a leader who knows how to establish and sustain a championship culture,”said Alabama State Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics. “His results speak for themselves, and his vision aligns perfectly with where we are going as a program.”
“We are proud to continue our strong winning tradition as we welcome Coach Chris Wright to lead our men’s basketball program. Alabama State President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. made the statement. “I have full confidence in the leadership and vision of our Athletic Director, Jason Cable, and trust in the direction he is guiding Hornet athletics. We are excited about the future of Hornet basketball. Our goal is clear: to compete at the highest level in the Southwestern Athletic Conference and beyond while developing champion, well-rounded student-athletes prepared for success in life. I look forward to the energy, passion, and leadership that Coach Chris Wright will bring to our program.”
Wright’s most recent success at Langston University has been truly historic. Taking over a program that finished 1–27, Wright engineered one of the most remarkable turnarounds in college basketball, leading Langston to a 31–3 record in his first season (2022–23). Over his four-year tenure, he compiled an extraordinary 121–21 record, including dominant seasons of 31–3, 35–2, and 29–8, firmly establishing Langston as a national powerhouse.
Under Wright’s leadership, Langston advanced to the NAIA National Championship game twiceand made multiple Sweet 16 appearances, consistently competing at the highest level on the national stage. His efforts earned him 2022–23 NAIA National Coach of the Year honors, as well as Sooner Athletic Conference Coach of the Yearrecognition.
Beyond Langston, Wright has demonstrated sustained excellence throughout his career, including impactful success at Talladega College, further reinforcing his reputation as one of the premier program builders in the game today. His teams are defined by discipline, defensive intensity, player development, and a relentless commitment to winning.
“I am honored and excited to lead the Alabama State Men’s Basketball program,” said Wright. “This is a proud institution with a rich tradition and a passionate fan base. We will build a program that competes for championships every year, develops our student-athletes, and represents this university at the highest level. Our expectation is to win and to win the right way.“
Wright’s leadership signals a bold new direction for Alabama State Basketball as the program positions itself as a consistent championship contender in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)and beyond. His proven ability to transform programs, recruit and develop elite talent, and win at a national level makes him uniquely suited to lead the Hornets.
“Our mission is clear,” added the Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics. “We are building a program that expects excellence and competes for championships annually. Chris Wright has done that everywhere he’s been and we expect him to do the same here at Alabama State.”
