Tulane women’s basketball head coach Ashley Langford announced on May 14 the addition of Sam Pierce and Jamia Hazell as assistant coaches for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Hazell will also serve as director of player development.
The announcement is significant for the Green Wave program, bringing in two new staff members with experience both on and off the court. Their backgrounds include conference championships, postseason play, and player development at various collegiate programs.
Pierce joins Tulane after four seasons at Delaware, where he helped guide the Blue Hens through a transition from the Colonial Athletic Association to Conference USA. During his tenure, Delaware secured six conference victories in its first CUSA season and won a game in the CUSA Basketball Championship. Prior to Delaware, Pierce served five years as associate head coach at Appalachian State, leading the team to a WBI title in 2018-19 and coaching several all-conference selections. His earlier career includes roles at Akron—where he developed multiple All-MAC honorees—and founding a basketball development program in Pennsylvania.
“Sam is a seasoned veteran with an elite basketball mind,” Langford said. “His defensive approach and analytical understanding of the game set him apart in this field. His experience, both on and off the court, will be an invaluable asset to our program.”
Hazell comes to Tulane following her time as a graduate assistant at James Madison University after completing her playing career there. She helped lead James Madison to a Sun Belt Conference Championship during her year on staff and previously played five seasons for the Dukes, becoming their all-time leader in games played with notable scoring contributions throughout her career. She was named to the 2021 CAA All-Rookie Team as a freshman.
“As long as I can remember, Jamia has always dreamed of becoming a coach,” said Langford. “I’m beyond excited that her first opportunity will be with us and the Tulane community. Her work ethic, drive, and championship experience will make an immediate impact on our players and our program.” Hazell reunites with Langford after being recruited by her during their time together at James Madison.
Pierce and Hazell join Harlyn Wyatt as first-year additions alongside returning staff members Donnie Stith, Shyan Mwai, and Johnny Flores.
