Longtime Coach Reflects on Community Roots and Encourages Involvement
HUNTSVILLE, Texas — In a profession known for its transient nature, Chris Mudge stands as a symbol of stability and inspiration for the Sam Houston Bearkats men’s basketball team. With almost 15 years in Huntsville, Mudge has profoundly impacted the community and his players.
On April 4, 2023, Director of Athletics Bobby Williams announced Chris Mudge’s promotion to the 20th head coach of the Sam Houston men’s basketball program. Reflecting on his journey, Mudge said, “Our coaching and life journey has been incredible. We feel truly blessed to have spent 14 going on 15 years in Huntsville.”
Mudge was the first to join former head coach Jason Hooten’s staff in 2010 and has played a crucial role in one of the most successful periods in the program’s history. Over 13 years, the Bearkats amassed 261 wins, a conference championship, and six postseason appearances. In June 2021, Mudge was promoted to associate head coach. Last season, his first year as head coach and the team’s first in Conference USA, he guided the Bearkats to a remarkable 13-3 record, finishing atop the conference.
Mudge’s role transcends basketball; it’s about fostering growth and community involvement. “The community plays a significant role in our players’ lives, showing them care beyond their performance on the court,” Mudge explained. He stresses the importance of guiding his players to become future fathers, husbands, and positive societal members.
Support from fans and the community is vital for the Bearkats. Purchasing season tickets and attending games are direct ways to show support. Additionally, the KatFund Golf Tournament at the Bearkat Course on October 18 offers another opportunity, featuring a 1 p.m. shotgun start and an evening auction with memorabilia and trip packages.
Proceeds from these events enhance the student-athlete experience, providing education in business, marketing, resume training, interview preparation, and financial literacy. “We aim to create a comprehensive experience and education for our players beyond basketball,” Mudge emphasized.
Before joining Sam Houston, Mudge served as an assistant coach at Midland College for two years, where he helped lead the team to a 63-7 record and top-10 national rankings. He graduated from Stony Point High School in Round Rock, where he was the starting point guard and led his team to a top-10 state ranking.
Mudge earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Texas in 2006, working under head coach Rick Barnes. He served as head manager, recruiting assistant, camp coordinator, and assistant video coordinator for the Longhorn basketball team. After earning his degree, he became a graduate assistant, working with future NBA stars like Kevin Durant, LaMarcus Aldridge, and P.J. Tucker.
To support the Bearkats, community members can donate to the athletic department or the KatFund Collective, which supports student-athletes. New rule changes also allow businesses and individuals to partner with players, creating mutual benefits.
Mudge and his wife, Lindsey, have two daughters, Jordan and Taylor, and a son, Colton. Lindsey is an accounting professor at Sam Houston.
For more information on getting involved, contact Coach Mudge at cmudge@shsu.edu.
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