University of St. Thomas Athletics is proud to announce the hiring of Nathan Ghavidel as the next head coach of the Celts women’s basketball program.
A familiar face to the St. Thomas community, Ghavidel returns to his alma mater after serving as both a student-athlete and coach within the Celts basketball program. His journey from player to assistant coach and now head coach reflects a deep commitment to the university and its mission of developing student-athletes both on and off the court.
This was a quick search because we knew from the beginning who we wanted to lead our women’s basketball program,” said UST Director of Athletics Todd Smith. “The program has made tremendous strides in recent years, and we are excited to continue building on that success. Bringing one of our own back home makes this hire even more special, and we look forward to the impact he will have on our student-athletes and the future of the program.”
Ghavidel most recently served as Assistant Coach at Dallas Baptist University during the 2025-26 season, where he helped lead the team to NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen. Prior to joining DBU, he spent two seasons on the St. Thomas men’s basketball coaching staff under Head Coach Anthony Medina, helping guide the Celts through one of the most successful stretches in recent program history.
As an assistant coach, Ghavidel played an important role in the Celts’ 2024-25 championship season. St. Thomas posted a remarkable 26-3 overall record while capturing both the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) regular-season championship and conference tournament title. During his tenure, he assisted with recruiting, scouting, player development, practice planning, and game preparation while helping cultivate a championship culture within the program.
“Nathan’s journey to this position makes this a special day for our basketball family,” said Medina. “He came to St. Thomas as a student-athlete, developed into a leader within our program, and later helped us achieve tremendous success as an assistant coach.
“Throughout every role he has held, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our university, our student-athletes, and the values that define St. Thomas.
“I am incredibly proud of the coach and person he has become, and I have complete confidence that he will build a women’s basketball program that competes for championships while providing a first-class experience for our student-athletes. We are excited to welcome Nathan as the next leader of St. Thomas Women’s Basketball.”
Before beginning his collegiate coaching career, Ghavidel gained valuable experience at Bracken Christian School. where he served as the Head Boys Basketball Coach for the junior varsity and while also assisting the varsity program. He has also coached extensively at the AAU level throughout Texas, working with athletes in the Hill Country, San Antonio, and Houston regions.
A 2023 graduate of St. Thomas with a Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business, Ghavidel enjoyed a successful playing career with the Celts. He was a member of the 2020 SCAC regular-season championship team and made several starts during his collegiate career.
Prior to arriving at St. Thomas, Ghavidel starred at Boerne Champion High School under legendary coach Stan Leech. He finished his high school career as the program’s all-time leading scorer and established himself as one of the top players in the region.
Now returning to Houston to lead the women’s basketball program, Ghavidel brings a unique perspective shaped by his experiences as a student-athlete, assistant coach, and mentor. He is eager to build upon the program’s foundation while fostering excellence in competition, academics, leadership, and personal growth.
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