Montana Tech Athletic Director Chuck Morrell announced Adam Hiatt as the new leader of the Oredigger men’s basketball program.

“Coach Hiatt embodied all of the key elements we were looking for to lead our men’s basketball team: a strong focus on academics, an elite basketball IQ, and a plan to build a culture of community and toughness within our program,” said Morrell. “Coach Hiatt and his family are a tremendous fit for Montana Tech and we are looking forward to future success and community engagement under his leadership.”

Hiatt was most recently the head coach at former Frontier Conference member Westminster College in Salt Lake City.  Hiatt served as the head coach for the Griffins for four seasons from 2011-15 and was the assistant for the previous three. At the helm, Hiatt produced a 73-48 (.603) overall record and was fourth all-time in victories and third in winning percentage. The Griffins continually finished in the top half of the Frontier Conference (32-27) and reached the NAIA National Tournament in 2013-14.

Hiatt produced 11 All-Conference selections, four All-Americans, 38 Academic All-Conference and 22 Daktronic-NAIA Scholar Athletes.

“My family and I are truly blessed to be a part of the Montana Tech and Butte community,” said Hiatt. “I would like to thank Chancellor Blackketter and Athletic Director Chuck Morrell for giving us this opportunity and having the confidence that we will be able to positively impact our student-athletes and lead this basketball program.”

The Griffins went 78-20 and won two Frontier Conference titles while he was the top assistant. Prior to coaching at Westminster, Hiatt began his coaching career at the University of Idaho.

Originally from Bonners Ferry, Idaho, Hiatt played two seasons at Ricks College where he was a two-time All-Conference selection. He played his final two seasons at Westminster earning All-American twice and led the Griffins to two conference championships. In 2004, he was the Frontier scoring champion. Hiatt holds the all-time career scoring and single season scoring record at Westminster.

“Having spent nearly a decade in the Frontier Conference as a player and coach I have always had deep admiration for the academic excellence that Montana Tech espouses. This, first and foremost, is what attracted me to the position. Add to that the beautiful campus, the fantastic facilities, and the community and athletic department support, all of which make this a perfect fit for me and my family.”

Joining Adam is his wife Jenica and their children Addelei (9), Jaxon (7), Clara (4), and Reddic (2).

Hiatt will be introduced to the community Wednesday, March 23. Time and location will be announced next week.

The position is contingent upon subsequent approval by the Board of Regents.

http://www.godiggers.com/news/2016/3/16/mens-basketball-hiatt-to-lead-basketball-program.aspx