PULASKI, Tenn. – UT Southern Women's Basketball Head Coach Ross James has announced his departure from the program to accept the head coaching position at the University of Indianapolis.

James departs after a highly successful tenure leading the Firehawks, highlighted by one of the most historic runs in program history. In his two seasons at the helm, he guided UT Southern to back-to-back winning seasons with a 13-9 record in his first year followed by a 23-7 mark in 2025-26, elevating the program to new heights both in the SSAC and nationally.

During the 2025-26 campaign, James led the Firehawks to a national ranking and a run to the NAIA Women's Basketball National Championship Second Round. Along the way, UT Southern secured the program's first-ever NAIA National Championship victory.

Under his leadership, the Firehawks also made consecutive appearances in the SSAC Championship semifinals, including a runner-up finish in 2026, further cementing the program's rise within the conference.

"Coach James has made a tremendous impact on our women's basketball program in a short amount of time," said UT Southern Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Brandie Paul. "His leadership, passion, and commitment to our student-athletes helped elevate our program to new heights. We are grateful for the foundation he has built and the success he brought to UT Southern. While we are sad to see him go, we are excited for him and his family as he takes this next step at the University of Indianapolis."

James quickly established a culture of competitiveness and growth within the program, guiding the Firehawks to postseason success and national recognition.

"I'm grateful for my time at UT Southern. Thank you to Chancellor Linda Martin and AD Brandie Paul for the opportunity to lead the program, and to Chancellor Melinda Arnold for your support. I'm proud of what we accomplished... competing for championships, earning a national tournament win, and seeing five players earn all-conference honors, including one All-American. The future is bright for the Firehawks, and I wish the program continued success," said James.

A national search for the next head coach of the UT Southern women's basketball program will begin immediately.

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