ABILENE, Texas – McMurry University Head Men's Basketball Coach Zach Pickelman brought back a former player and student coach to the program this offseason, naming Tyson Scott to the position of assistant men's basketball coach.

Scott played two seasons for the War Hawks from 2014-2016 – the latter one under Pickelman. He later served as a student assistant coach for Pickelman until graduating in 2018.  

"I am excited about the addition of Tyson Scott to our Staff and University," said Pickelman, who enters his seventh season at McMurry. "Being an alumnus, I believe Tyson is fully committed to developing our scholar-athletes into Champions for Life. His experience and love for McMurry will benefit our team as we look towards recruiting for the future, and the upcoming season."

Prior to his return to McMurry, Scott worked two seasons as a graduate assistant coach at crosstown rival Hardin-Simmons University. After completing his master's in 2020, Scott went on to coach at Azle High School for one season, serving as the assistant varsity coach and head junior varsity coach.

With his help, Azle Basketball reached the playoffs for the first time in 10 years.

"I am really excited to be back here at McMurry," Scott said. "McMurry University and the men's basketball program is one of the greatest things that's ever happened to me. I appreciate Coach Pick for allowing me to come back and coach for him and be a War Hawk again. I can't wait to get to work with our team and go compete for a conference championship."

While at McMurry as a student, Scott not only served the men's basketball program for many years, but also had a large presence on campus. He participated in the Campus Activity Board (CAB), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), worked as a Resident Assistant, Co-Advisor for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), a preceptor for McMurry's Servant Leadership Program and a student orientation leader. He also earned Mr. McMurry during Homecoming.

To top things off, Scott graduated from the Honor's Program and made the Dean's List.

Scott graduated from McMurry University in 2018 with a degree in interdisciplinary studies, focusing on history, coaching and education. Two years later, he obtained his master's degree from HSU in kinesiology, sports and recreation.

Scott has relocated from Azle to Abilene. He originally came to college from Gunter, Texas.