York University has announced the hiring of Mitch McMullen as the new Head Coach for the men’s basketball team. McMullen, who will officially start his role on April 1, 2025, brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record to the Panthers’ basketball program.
Director of Athletics Garrett Schwarz is very excited about the new hire saying “I am thrilled to welcome Coach McMullen as the new leader of our men’s basketball program at York University. He brings a wealth of experience, a sharp basketball IQ, and exceptional recruiting skills. He knows how to cultivate meaningful relationships, and most importantly, his faith and life mission align perfectly with our university’s core values and mission.”
Mitch McMullen comes to York University with a notable coaching background that spans several years and various institutions. He started his coaching career as an assistant at Temple College, Texas, where he managed a tough first season with a 5-16 record during the COVID-affected year but quickly turned the program around with a 20-10 record the following season, achieving an undefeated home record. His coaching journey continued at junior college level with a stop at Fort Scott Community College in Kansas, where he was the lead assistant on recruiting as he helped lead the team to a 19-11 overall record. Most recently, McMullen coached at Nelson University, Texas, as the Associate Head Coach where he achieved a 20-10 record in his first year and reached the NAIA National Tournament while coaching two All-Americans. Currently, he is leading his team with a 20-7 record and a regular season championship and automatic berth to the NAIA National Tournament secured.
During his time as a player at Nelson, he helped lead the team to a conference championship in 2020 with a 25-7 record, achieving a second seed in the national tournament and earning accolades on the All-Tournament Team and an NAIA Scholar Team Award.
In his own words, McMullen expressed immense gratitude and excitement about his new position. “I am extremely blessed and thankful to be a part of the York Family. My family and I are beyond excited to get up there. I especially want to thank my wife, Talia, for allowing me to chase my coaching dreams. Having the opportunity to work at a Christ-Centered University is a huge blessing, and I am looking forward to getting started,” McMullen stated. He also extended his thanks to Coach Burks for setting a high standard of Christ-driven coaching and to Athletic Director Garret Schwarz for his trust in leading the program.
McMullen holds a Master’s Degree in Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation from Hardin-Simmons University and an undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Nelson University.
McMullen named Head Men’s Basketball Coach at NAIA York University (NE)
