Alcorn State has added an accomplished NBA veteran to its basketball program, hiring Monta Ellis as the men’s basketball general manager.
Ellis, who enjoyed a 12-year NBA career, brings extensive experience at the highest level of the game to the Braves. His hiring reflects the growing trend of Division I programs adding general managers to oversee roster management, recruiting, NIL strategy, and player personnel in the modern era of college athletics.
Working alongside head coach Jake Morton, Ellis will help shape the program’s roster, evaluate talent, and provide mentorship to student-athletes as Alcorn State looks to compete for SWAC championships.
Selected with the 40th overall pick in the 2005 MBA Draft, Ellis went on to become one of the NBA’s most dynamic scorers. He spent time with the Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, and Indiana Pacers, earning the NBA’s Most Improved Player Award in 2007 and averaging 17.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists over his career.
The addition of Ellis gives Alcorn State a recognizable basketball figure with deep NBA experience as the Braves continue building under first-year head coach Jake Morton. His playing background, Mississippi roots ( he hails from Jackson) and knowledge of the professional game could prove valuable in recruiting and player development while helping the program navigate the evolving landscape of college basketball.
He is the second notable NBA player to join a SWAC program , following Kendrick Perkins who , earlier this summer it was announced, will serve in a similar capacity at Jackson State
