Yet another Mississippi HBCU is bringing in a former NBA player to be the general manager of its men’s basketball program.
After Jackson State made waves in June with the hiring of 14-year professional big man Kendrick Perkins, Alcorn State announced Aug. 7 that former NBA guard Monta Ellis will be its general manager, effective immediately.
Ellis, a native of Jackson, played at Lanier High School before being selected in the second round of the 2005 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. He was the league’s Most Improved Player in 2007 and spent stints with the Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, and Indiana Pacers over 12 seasons.
Ellis finished with a career stat line of 17.8 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
In the announcement, Alcorn State athletic director E. D’Wayne Robinson said Ellis is the “perfect addition” to a program that is seeking its first winning season since 2022-23, when the Braves won the SWAC regular-season championship. Alcorn State has not made the NCAA Tournament since 2002.
The general manager position will be Ellis’ first official basketball staff role since his NBA career ended in 2017.
“Today marks the beginning of an incredible new chapter, and I’m truly honored and excited to be named the general manager for men’s basketball at Alcorn State University,” Ellis said. “Alcorn isn’t just a university. It’s a place built on history, tradition, excellence, and a legacy that has impacted generations.”
“As someone who believes in developing people on and off the court, I’m excited to help build a championship culture for our student-athletes to succeed in basketball, in the classroom, and – more importantly – in life,” Ellis continued. “I’m ready to get to work, embrace the challenge, and represent Braves Nation with pride.”
In his new role, Ellis will assist with roster construction, player evaluations, and high school and transfer portal recruiting. He will also help players secure NIL opportunities that maximize their brands and make Alcorn State more competitive in the SWAC and nationally.
Ellis will also serve as a mentor and resource for players as they navigate the student-athlete experience both on and off the court, the announcement added.
“Monta’s name alone opens doors for our program, from the recruiting trail to the national stage,” Robinson said. “He understands what it takes to compete and win at the highest level, and that perspective will be invaluable as we continue building a roster capable of competing for SWAC championships here in Lorman.”