Butler University's basketball program marks a significant transition with the appointment of Ronald Nored as its new head coach. This move follows the retirement of veteran coach Thad Matta. Nored's deep roots as a former star player for the Bulldogs, coupled with his extensive coaching experience in the NBA, position him as a compelling choice to lead the team into its next chapter. The university anticipates that his leadership will reinvigorate the program and foster a culture of excellence on and off the court.
Butler University Welcomes Alumnus Ronald Nored as New Head Basketball Coach
Indianapolis, IN – On a Wednesday, Butler University announced the return of one of its most celebrated alumni, Ronald Nored, to take the helm as the head coach of its men's basketball team. Nored, a distinguished former point guard for the Bulldogs, assumes the role previously held by the esteemed Thad Matta, who retired on March 16 at the age of 58 after a decorated coaching career spanning 21 seasons, including stints at Butler (2000-01, 2022-26), Xavier (2001-04), and Ohio State (2004-17), where he amassed an impressive 502-223 record.
At 36 years old, Nored brings a rich background of professional basketball experience. Since 2018, he has honed his coaching skills as an assistant in the National Basketball Association (NBA), with his most recent tenure being with the Atlanta Hawks since 2023. Prior to his time with the Hawks, Nored served as an assistant coach for prominent NBA franchises such as the Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, and Indiana Pacers. His leadership capabilities were further demonstrated during his two-year stint as the head coach of the NBA G League's Long Island Nets from 2016 to 2018.
Nored's legacy at Butler is profound. As a collegiate athlete, he was a pivotal figure in the Bulldogs' historic runs to the NCAA Tournament championship games in both 2010 and 2011. His defensive prowess earned him the Horizon League Defensive Player of the Year award twice. He still holds the university records for career games played, with an astounding 143 appearances, and career steals, with 207 takeaways. Athletic Director Grant Leiendecker, who was a teammate of Nored's during their playing days at Butler, expressed immense confidence in the new coach, stating, "Ron is a relentless worker with an elite basketball IQ and a proven track record of developing talent at the highest level of basketball. He is the ultimate competitor, and he will cultivate that same quality within his team and staff." Leiendecker emphasized that while Nored's history with the university is cherished, his appointment is primarily based on his forward-thinking vision for the program's future. Butler's basketball team concluded the 2025-26 season with a 16-16 record, including a 7-13 mark in the Big East Conference, and has not participated in the NCAA Tournament since the 2017-18 season.
Nored himself conveyed his profound enthusiasm for the role, remarking, "The term 'dream job' doesn't do justice to how I feel about the opportunity to lead the Butler program." He further articulated his deep personal investment, saying, "As a player, I poured blood, sweat and tears into this program. No one appreciates both the responsibility and the potential that comes with this position more than me." His vision for elevating Butler basketball is clear, citing the passionate fan base, the iconic Hinkle Fieldhouse, the competitive Big East conference, the storied tradition, a world-class education, and a thriving city as foundational elements for future success. He is eager to immediately begin working towards achieving new heights for the university's esteemed program.
The return of Ronald Nored to Butler University as head coach signifies more than just a coaching change; it represents a homecoming for a beloved alumnus and a strategic move to rekindle the program's storied success. His deep understanding of the university's values, combined with his high-level coaching acumen and proven ability to develop talent, provides a strong foundation for future achievements. This appointment offers an inspiring narrative of dedication and potential, suggesting that the Bulldogs are poised for an exciting new chapter under his leadership. Fans and alumni alike will undoubtedly be watching closely as Nored endeavors to lead his alma mater back to national prominence.
