Nathan Ghavidel was named the fourth head coach in UST women's basketball history in June 2026, returning to his alma mater after establishing himself as one of the rising coaches in collegiate basketball.
Ghavidel returned to St. Thomas following a season on the Dallas Baptist University men's basketball staff, where he helped guide the Patriots to an appearance in the NCAA Division II South Central Regional and a berth in the NCAA Division II Sweet 16.
Prior to his time at DBU, Ghavidel spent two seasons on the St. Thomas men's basketball coaching staff under Head Coach Anthony Medina. During his tenure with the Celts, he helped lead the program through one of the most successful stretches in recent history, highlighted by a 26-3 record and Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) regular-season and tournament championships during the 2024-25 season. His responsibilities included recruiting, scouting, player development, practice planning, and game preparation while helping foster a championship culture within the program.
A proud St. Thomas alumnus, Ghavidel earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business in 2023. Following graduation, he transitioned from student-athlete to coach, continuing to serve the university that helped shape his development both on and off the court. He is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Sport Management from Dallas Baptist University.
Before entering the collegiate coaching ranks, Ghavidel gained valuable experience at Bracken Christian School, where he served as the Head Boys Basketball Coach for the junior varsity while assisting the varsity team. He has also coached extensively at the AAU level throughout Texas, working with athletes in the Hill Country, San Antonio, and Houston regions.
As a player for the Celts, Ghavidel was a member of the 2020 SCAC regular-season championship team and made several starts during his collegiate career. His experience as a student-athlete at St. Thomas provides him with a unique understanding of the university's mission and the expectations of competing as a Celt.
Prior to arriving at St. Thomas, Ghavidel enjoyed a standout playing career at Boerne Champion High School under legendary coach Stan Leech. He finished as the program's all-time leading scorer and remains one of the most accomplished players in school history.
