EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – SIUE men's basketball Head Coach Brian Barone has promoted Ryan Hellenthal to Associate Head Coach.
Hellenthal has been on staff at SIUE since 2022 first as Director of Player Development and Basketball Administration and then as an assistant coach. The 2026-27 will be Hellenthal's 24th in college basketball.
"Ryan Hellenthal's elevation to Associate Head Coach reflects the impact he has had on our program since arriving at SIUE," Barone said. "Ryan brings a wealth of experience from his years in coaching, including his time as a head coach, and that experience has been invaluable to our staff, our players, and our overall program. His knowledge of the game, leadership ability, and commitment to excellence have helped elevate every aspect of what we do."
At SIUE, Hellenthal has been on staff for the most successful stretch in SIUE's Division I history. The Cougars have amassed a record of 77-55 over the past four years with an OVC Tournament championship and the program's first March Madness appearance in 2025.
"I am grateful to take on this new position and continue the challenge of elevating Cougar Basketball both on and off the court," Hellenthal said. "I cannot thank Chancellor James Minor, Director of Athletics Andrew Gavin, and Head Coach Brian Barone for their continued support and belief in me as we have reached unprecedented heights for our program. The last four years here with our players, staff, campus, and the community of Edwardsville have been really special. I am truly excited for the opportunity to work with Coach Barone to continue building the #FINDAWAY program based on his vision and values. ROLL COUGS."
"Ryan has played a major role in our recruiting success and player development," Barone added. "He has an exceptional eye for identifying talent and building relationships with future Cougars. Our players trust him because he invests in them as people first, and his ability to develop confidence, accountability, and skill has been instrumental in the growth of our program."
Prior to coming to SIUE, Hellenthal spent six years at Division II Quincy, including five seasons as the Hawks' head coach. He has extensive experience at the Division I, Division II and junior college levels as an assistant and in operations roles.
"Beyond the court, Ryan has been an integral piece of establishing and sustaining the winning culture we have built at SIUE," Barone continued. "He is a trusted friend, an outstanding coach, and a tireless worker who embodies the values of SIUE Basketball. I am excited to recognize his contributions with this promotion and look forward to the continued success we will achieve together."
