The University of New Mexico men’s basketball program has added Aki Collins to its staff, the program announced. Collins will serve as the program’s director of operations after Ralph Davis was promoted to assistant coach in September.

Collins comes to UNM after spending the last five years as an amateur evaluation scout for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Prior to his time with the Thunder, Collins spent three years as an assistant coach at the University of Memphis (2012-15) and four years as an assistant coach at Marquette (2008-12).

Collins also spent stints as an assistant coach at Fairfield University (2006-08), Marshall (2003-06), Howard University (2000-03) and the University of Colorado, Boulder (1997-2000).

“Aki’s experiences in both college and the NBA are going to be an amazing resource for our student-athletes,” head coach Paul Weir said. “To add someone of his coaching background to our staff will help push us forward this year and beyond.”

Collins earned a bachelor of arts in communication from Clark Atlanta University in 1997 and is currently working on a master’s degree in athletic leadership at Rider University.

“I want to thank Coach Weir for this wonderful opportunity to join the Lobo family. This is truly a blessing,” Collins said. I look forward to working with Coach McHale, Coach Padgett and Coach Davis. I am also excited to meet the players and get to work.”

https://golobos.com/news/2020/10/19/lobos-add-collins-as-director-of-operations/