The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
Blazer Assistant Coach Kerry Rupp Accepts Head Coaching Position At Louisiana Tech
4/13/2007 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
April 13, 2007
RUSTON, La. - UAB assistant coach Kerry Rupp was tabbed the head coach of Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, announced Louisiana Tech President Dr. Dan Reneau on Friday. Rupp, who was an assistant coach under Mike Davis at Indiana (2004-2006) and at UAB (2006-2007), becomes the 16th head coach in the history of the Bulldog basketball program.
"What a great hire for Louisiana Tech and the men's basketball program," Davis said. "Kerry Rupp is a terrific recruiter, mentor and coach. He has been around the game for a very long time, and he has been instrumental in the success we have had over the last several years. He knows the game just about as well as anyone I have been around, and he is going to be a great addition to Louisiana Tech."
Rupp's hiring is pending approval of the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System.
Reneau made the announcement during a noon press conference held in the Hall of Fame Room of the Thomas Assembly Center located in the Louisiana Tech campus.
"I am excited about attracting Coach Kerry Rupp to come to our university," Reneau said. "I know he is the individual we need to lead us forward in men's basketball."
He also served as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for Rick Majerus at Utah (2000-04) and was the interim head coach of the Utes in 2004. Rupp was instrumental in Utah signing center Andrew Bogut, the eventual No. 1 pick of the 2005 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks.
Tech Athletic Director Jim Oakes said he felt like Louisiana Tech found the best person for the Bulldog vacancy.
"Coach Rupp is highly regarded in the coaching profession as an incredible recruiter," Oakes said. "I know he is a person of solid integrity with a real eagerness to become a successful head coach."
Rupp, who served as the director of the Karl Malone Basketball Camps and executive director for the Karl Malone Foundation for Kids, was instrumental in leading the Utah Utes to three NCAA Tournaments, two Mountain West Championship and one NIT berth from 2000 through 2004.
"I've known Kerry for 23 years, and this is a long time coming," Tech legend Karl Malone said. "What he brings to the table I am certain will be successful."
Rupp earned his bachelor's degree in exercise and sport science from Southern Utah University in 1977.
He and his wife Lori have five daughters: Allie, Lindsey, Shelby, Billie and Randie.
