USC Upstate announced the addition of Thomas Mandell to its men's basketball coaching staff, appointing him as an assistant focused on operations for the upcoming 2026‑27 season. Head coach Marty Richter highlighted the hire as a strategic move that blends analytical rigor with on‑court insight.
Strategic Vision for the Spartans
Mandell arrives after a stint at Mercy University, where he coordinated player development, scouting and day‑to‑day team logistics. His tenure there included leading recruiting evaluations and overseeing summer camp programs at institutions such as Alabama, Southern Miss, Shaw and Emory.
A former two‑time team captain at Mercy, Mandell also logged 12 collegiate appearances, including a start, while pursuing a bachelor's degree in history education and a master's in organizational leadership. His leadership extended to the Student‑Athlete Advisory Council and youth basketball initiatives.
At USC Upstate, Mandell will work closely with Richter to streamline operational workflows, enhance player development pathways and support scouting efforts. The partnership reflects a shared vision of building a competitive program anchored in both performance and administrative excellence.