Dawn Thornton Introduced As Alabama A&M Bulldogs Head Women's Basketball Coach

Alabama A&M Bulldogs athletic director Paul A. Bryant held a press conference inside the AAMU event center to introduce Dawn Thornton as the Bulldogs' next women's basketball coach. Thornton resigned from Arkansas-Pine Bluff this past week to replace former head basketball coach Margaret Richards, who resigned in March to pursue other opportunities. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Coach Dawn Thornton to the Alabama A&M University family as our new head women's basketball coach," Bryant said at the press conference. "Coach Thornton's remarkable record of success, both within the SWAC and against formidable out-of-conference opponents, speaks volumes about her prowess and strategic acumen in the realm of collegiate basketball. Her leadership qualities, combined with a deep understanding of the game, make her the ideal candidate to elevate our program."

Thornton led the Golden Lions over the previous five seasons, taking her team to the SWAC Women's Basketball Tournament Championship game in 2023. Also, she guided them to non-conference victories over SMU and Arkansas. Several of her players earned SWAC Conference honors, set school records, and received national recognition.

"I want to express my gratitude to Dr. Daniel K. Wims, AD Dr. Paul Bryant, and the entire search committee for their faith in me to lead this women's basketball program," Thornton said. "My family and I cannot wait to embrace new opportunities in engaging the Normal community. Alabama A&M is a national household brand that rings bells everywhere we go. It is my goal to continue to build off the success that this program has already achieved. 

She has a 102-159 record as a head coach from stints at Prairie View A&M, Shorter College, and UAPB.