California State University San Bernardino Athletics has announced the hiring of Chris Tifft as the new head coach of the Coyotes men’s basketball program. A seasoned leader with deep roots in California basketball, and extensive coaching experience across multiple collegiate levels, Tifft brings a proven record of player development, recruiting success, and competitive excellence.
Tifft joins CSUSB after spending the previous two seasons as head coach at CCAA rival Cal Poly Humboldt. Tifft led the Lumberjacks to a record of 18-11 in his second season at the helm, including a first round victory over their rivals from Cal Poly Pomona in the CCAA Tournament this past season. The Lumberjacks led the CCAA in field goal percentage, and had the third best scoring offense of any team in the league.
Tifft coached four CCAA All-Conference selections this season, including first-teamer Rob Diaz, who was a contender for CCAA Player of the Year.
After inheriting a young Lumberjack squad prior to his first season in 2023-24, Tifft led the team to a 12-win improvement, the highest win improvement in the West Region and third highest in the nation.
Before Humboldt, Tifft made previous coaching stops at Cal State Northridge, Central Michigan, Saint Louis, TCU, and his alma mater Nevada.
“It is an honor to be named the head coach of the Cal State San Bernardino men’s basketball team,” said Tifft. “I would like to thank President Tomas Morales and Director of Athletics Shareef Amer for the opportunity to lead the Coyotes program.”
Tifft steps into a program that has seen tremendous success in recent years, including a Final Four appearance and multiple CCAA regular season championships. He will be tasked with maintaining the Coyotes’ national relevance while building upon a strong culture of student-athlete success on and off the court.
“I’m thrilled to have Coach Tifft join our department as our next men’s basketball head coach,” said Amer. “Chris is a leader with vision, passion, and the ability to connect with student-athletes and the campus community. His experience and character make him the right person to guide the future of Coyote Basketball.”
“Cal State San Bernardino has a deep tradition of excellence and we will work tirelessly to uphold that standard,” Tifft continued. “In leading this program, I promise to work tirelessly to pursue championships while making Yotes Nation proud with the men who represent our institution. My family and I are thrilled to be part of the Coyote family!”
