WICHITA FALLS, Texas -- Midwestern State welcomes one of its own back to campus to lead its storied men's basketball program.

MSU Director of Athletics Kyle Williams announced Jon Trilli as the 11th head coach in program history Friday afternoon.

"We are excited to welcome in the next era of MSU basketball under the leadership of Jon Trilli. He is a lifelong student of the game, and is committed to the growth and success of the student-athlete both on and off of the court," Williams said.

"From the first moment he met with the committee, you could tell he had a passion for this university. To put it simply, he is one of us. We are pleased to welcome coach Trilli; his wife, Jordan; and their entire family to Midwestern State University."

Trilli took part in great success during his first stay in Wichita Falls. As a transfer from Garden City Community College in Kansas, he played in 40 games to help the Mustangs advance to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight during the 2009-10 and 2010-11 campaigns under current Texas Tech coach Grant McCasland.

Trilli then served on Nelson Haggerty's staff for the next four campaigns as the Mustangs won three Lone Star Conference titles, while extending their national tournament run to seven consecutive years.

"As a former player that started my coaching journey at MSU, this community and university have always had a special place in my heart," Trilli said. "My wife and family love it as well, so we're all very excited about returning to Wichita Falls."

Trilli understands the tradition of the program as a second generation Midwestern State alum. His father, Vic, also played and coached at MSU.

"I'm incredibly honored and grateful to be the next head coach at Midwestern State," he said. "I thank Dr. Haynie, Kyle Williams, the entire hiring committee, as well as everyone else who has entrusted me with this opportunity. I am aware that this decision was not made lightly, and they all worked diligently together to come to this decision."

Trilli has been a part of memorable while serving on the staffs at Arkansas-Little Rock, North Texas, and Abilene Christian over the past 10 years.

He was a part of Chris Beard's run to the second round of the 2016 NCAA tournament that included a double overtime victory over Purdue.

Trilli also experienced Abilene Christian's upset of Texas in the opening round of the 2021 NCAA tournament while working under Joe Golding.

He is looking to bring the same success back to Wichita Falls.

"I am very familiar with the pride, tradition, and history at Midwestern and specifically the men's basketball program – the conference championships, the NAIA and the NCAA Tournament appearances and the deep runs that were made by previous teams, as well as the legendary coaches that have led this program," Trilli said. "I look forward to the opportunity to return to D.L. Ligon Coliseum and experience that famous 'Dome Magic' as we compete to bring a national championship to MSU."

What others say about Jon Trilli

Texas Tech Head Coach Grant McCasland
As a former player and assistant coach, with his history of winning at the highest level, there is no question Jon is ready to lead a program. I couldn't be more excited for Midwestern State. It won't take long for the Mustangs to be back in the tournament and playing for championships."

UTEP Head Coach Joseph Golding
"I couldn't be happier for Jon, his wife Jordan, and the boys. Midwestern State has hit a home run with this hire. Jon understands Midwestern State basketball and its storied history with being a former player and coach. Jon has won his entire career and will win at Midwestern State. He has a great basketball mind and, more importantly, builds incredible relationships with his players. I know Coach Haggerty is smiling from heaven on this hire, and is so proud of Jon to be name head coach."

Abilene Christian Head Coach Brette Tanner
"I am super excited for Jon, but even more excited for Midwestern State. They are getting a proven winner and somebody who has a love and passion for the university. We will miss him tremendously here at ACU, but couldn't be happier for him and his family."