ALAMOSA, Colo. – Adams State Director of Athletics Katelyn Smith announced Friday that Nic Cantrell has been named head coach of the Adams State women's basketball program.

"We are excited to welcome Coach Nic Cantrell to Adams State University," said Adams State Athletic Director Katelyn Smith. "Coach Cantrell brings outstanding leadership, a passion for student-athlete development, and a strong vision for the future of our women's basketball program. We are confident he will make a tremendous impact on our student-athletes, our program, and the Adams State community."

"I want to thank Katelyn Smith and the entire Adams State administration for believing in me and trusting me to lead this program," said Cantrell. "Adams State has a proud tradition, and I am excited to build meaningful relationships with our student-athletes, alumni, and community while creating a culture built on accountability, toughness, and excellence. My family and I can't wait to get to Alamosa and get to work."

Cantrell comes to Adams State after spending the past two seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, where he reunited with head coach Misty Wilson following their time together at Tarleton State University. 

During his three seasons at UCCS, Cantrell helped guide the Mountain Lions to one of the most successful stretches in program history. As a member of the coaching staff, UCCS captured two RMAC Championships, earned two NCAA Division II National Tournament appearances, and recorded 63 victories while averaging more than 20 wins per season. Cantrell played a key role in all aspects of the program, including recruiting, player development, scouting, game preparation, and academic support.

During four seasons with Tarleton State women's basketball program, Cantrell oversaw team's offensive game plan and in-game play calling, directed guard development, and served as the program's lead recruiter and team travel coordinator.

Before joining the women's program, Cantrell served as an assistant coach for the Tarleton State men's basketball team from 2017-19, marking his second stint with the program. His responsibilities included serving as the academic liaison and study hall coordinator, directing summer camps, leading fundraising efforts, coordinating team travel, overseeing recruiting and working with guards. 

A former Tarleton State student-athlete, Cantrell played for the Texans from 2005-08 before beginning his coaching career as the team's head student assistant coach during the 2009-10 season. He then served as a graduate assistant from 2010-12 before being promoted to assistant coach for the next two seasons.

During his time with the men's basketball program, Cantrell assisted with practice, film breakdown, and scout team operations while also serving as a kinesiology instructor.

As a player, Cantrell helped guide Tarleton State to a 70-24 record over three seasons, including three South Central Regional Tournament appearances and an NCAA Division II  Elite Eight appearance during the 2005-06 season. 

Cantrell earned his bachelor's degree from Tarleton State in 2010 and completed a masters degree in kinesiology in 2012.

He and his wife, Kimberly, have two children, Aubrey and Jaxon, and look forward to joining the Adams State and Alamosa communities.