Former Ole Miss men’s basketball coach Andy Kennedy has been named interim athletics director at his alma mater.
UAB announced on Wednesday that it had parted ways with longtime AD Mark Ingraham, who had overseen the Blazers’ athletics programs for 11 years. In the meantime, Kennedy has been tasked with overseeing the athletics department in the interim.
Shortly after his appointment, Kennedy issued a release outlining his mission for the UAB athletics department, which include: supporting student-athletes, supporting coaches and staff, continuing to build momentum across athletic programs, strengthening relationships with supporters and community, and positioning UAB for long-term athletic success.
“As many of you know, college athletics is undergoing one of the most significant periods of change in its history. New financial realities, evolving competitive dynamics, and changing expectations from student-athletes, fans and supporters are reshaping the landscape every day,” Kennedy said. “While those changes present challenges, they also create tremendous opportunities for programs willing to embrace them. I firmly believe that UAB can position itself to thrive in this environment.”
Kennedy spent his playing days at UAB from 1988-91 and holds multiple school records. He holds the school record for career 3-point field goals made (318) and attempted (728), 3-point field goal percentage (43.7%), and free throw percentage (87.2%).
As a coach, Kennedy is the winningest frontman in Ole Miss men’s basketball history. He led the Rebels from 2006-18 and notably led the team to an SEC Tournament championship in 2013 and two March Madness appearances. Kennedy coached Ole Miss greats like Marshall Henderson, Murphy Holloway, and Stefan Moody before stepping down as head coach in 2018.
Kennedy spent two seasons as a commentator for ESPN and the SEC Network before returning to his alma mater. As UAB’s frontman, Kennedy has won at least 20 games in each of his six seasons at the helm. The Blazers have also made two NCAA Tournament appearances.
He will remain the head men’s basketball coach while serving as UAB’s AD.