Full Breakdown
Georgia Tech Men's Basketball Welcomes New Coaching Staff Under Scott Cross
4/8/2026, 4:03:08 AM
New Coaching Additions Announced
Georgia Tech men's basketball head coach Scott Cross has officially announced the hiring of five new coaches to his staff, aiming to revitalize the program. The new additions include Wes Flanigan and Kenneth Mangrum as associate head coaches, along with Brandon Gilbert, Kelvin Lewis, and Chris Kreider as assistant coaches. This experienced group is expected to enhance recruiting efforts and player development for the Yellow Jackets.
Profiles of the New Coaches
Wes Flanigan
Wes Flanigan joins Georgia Tech after successful coaching stints at Ole Miss, Auburn, Mississippi State, and Nebraska. With over 22 years of collegiate coaching experience, Flanigan has led teams to eight postseason appearances and ten seasons with over 20 wins. Cross praised Flanigan's recruiting prowess, particularly in Atlanta, stating, “He has recruited some of the top players in the country from Atlanta and will be instrumental in our recruiting process of high-level student-athletes.”
Kenneth Mangrum
Kenneth Mangrum arrives from Vanderbilt, where he contributed to the Commodores' back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. His previous experience includes a successful tenure at Troy, where he helped the program achieve its first back-to-back 20-win seasons in nearly two decades. Mangrum expressed enthusiasm about rejoining Cross, emphasizing Georgia Tech's rich tradition of success.
Brandon Gilbert
Brandon Gilbert, who has spent the last six seasons on Cross's staff at Troy, has been instrumental in developing post players and securing multiple conference championships. Cross noted Gilbert's significant role in the team's success, highlighting his ability to recruit top talent, including the 2025 Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year, Tayton Conerway.
Kelvin Lewis
Kelvin Lewis, a former professional player with a 17-year career, has transitioned into coaching and was also part of Cross's staff at Troy. He has been recognized for his player development skills and connections within the Atlanta recruiting landscape. Cross described Lewis as “one of the best player development coaches” he has encountered.
Chris Kreider
Chris Kreider brings over 20 years of coaching experience, including previous roles at Georgia State and Georgia Tech. His extensive background includes recruiting top mid-major classes and developing players who have gone on to professional careers. Kreider expressed excitement about returning to Atlanta, calling it a “dream come true.”
Implications for Georgia Tech Basketball
The hiring of this experienced coaching staff signals Cross's commitment to quickly rebuilding Georgia Tech into a competitive force in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). The new coaches' combined expertise in recruiting and player development is expected to attract high-level talent and foster a winning culture within the program.
Official Statements
Scott Cross stated, “I have known Coach Wes Flanigan for over 10 years and have always admired him as a coach and a recruiter.” Meanwhile, Flanigan remarked, “I am elated to be a part of a Scott Cross led program, especially at a prestigious school like Georgia Tech.”
What's Next
The newly formed coaching staff will focus on recruiting top talent and implementing their systems with returning players as they prepare for the upcoming season. The integration of these coaches is seen as a pivotal step in restoring Georgia Tech's basketball program to prominence.
