New Additions to the Coaching Staff
Tulane head coach Ashley Langford unveiled two new assistants who will shape the Green Wave’s bench for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign, signaling a strategic reinforcement of the program’s depth and expertise.
Sam Pierce, who spent the last four years at the University of Delaware, brings a blend of strategic acumen and player development that helped the Blue Hens navigate a high‑profile conference move.
During his Delaware tenure, Pierce oversaw the transition from the Colonial Athletic Association to Conference USA, guiding the team to six conference victories and a memorable win over Kennesaw State in the C‑USA championship game.
Prior to Delaware, Pierce served five seasons as associate head coach at Appalachian State, where he contributed to the Mountaineers’ 2018‑19 Women’s Basketball Invitational title, and earlier helped Akron produce five All‑MAC honorees, including Player of the Year Sina King.
Pierce also founded the PA Pride basketball development program in Altoona, Pennsylvania, a testament to his commitment to grassroots growth and nurturing emerging talent.
Jamia Hazell arrives after a season as a graduate assistant at James Madison, where she helped the Dukes post a 26‑9 record and a 14‑4 mark in Sun Belt play, underscoring her immediate impact on the program.
A standout player for five seasons at James Madison, Hazell capped her collegiate career as the program’s all‑time leader in games played with 157 appearances, earned a 2021 CAA All‑Rookie Team nod, and contributed to two conference championships and NCAA Tournament berths.
Hazell will reunite with Langford, her former recruiter at James Madison, and holds a bachelor’s degree in individualized studies with an entrepreneurship concentration and a master’s in education, complemented by a 2026 learning‑design certificate.
The staff also retains veterans Donnie Stith, Shyan Mwai and Johnny Flores, forming a blend of experience and fresh perspective as the Green Wave looks to build on recent momentum and pursue new heights.