Tufts University announced the elevation of Chris Lydon to associate head coach, a move that follows three seasons of distinguished service as an assistant under head coach Brandon Linton. Linton praised Lydon’s basketball acumen and his ability to develop players both on and off the court, noting that the promotion reflects the program’s upward trajectory.
Lydon’s influence is evident in the team’s recent achievements. Under his guidance the Jumbos captured their second Elite Eight berth in school history, finishing the season with a 27‑6 overall record and a 6‑3 mark in the NCAA Tournament. His work in player development and recruiting helped the squad post a 66‑20 overall record, a 21‑9 tally in the NESCAC, and a .767 winning percentage during his tenure.
Before joining Tufts, Lydon refined his coaching philosophy at several institutions. He served as an assistant at Suffolk University from 2021 to 2023, contributing to back‑to‑back 16‑win seasons, and previously held roles at Wheaton College and as a volunteer at Northeastern University. As a player, he earned a full scholarship at the University of Massachusetts, graduating in 2016 with Scholar‑Athlete honors.
A New Chapter for the Jumbos
The promotion signals a continued investment in internal growth, as Tufts looks to build on its recent success while maintaining its competitive edge in the NESCAC. Athletic director Bill Coen expressed confidence that Lydon’s blend of playing experience, coaching acumen, and recruiting network will keep the program among the nation’s elite. Fans and alumni alike anticipate that the next chapter will be marked by sustained excellence and continued development of the next generation of Jumbo athletes.