Longwood University has named Ronnie Thomas as its new head men’s basketball coach, the school announced Sunday. Thomas, who has been an assistant coach on the Lancers’ staff since 2020, succeeds Griff Aldrich, who is heading to the University of Virginia after seven successful seasons in Farmville.
A Virginia native, Thomas has been instrumental in Longwood’s rise as a perennial Big South contender, contributing to two NCAA Tournament appearances under Aldrich. Known for his passionate coaching style and deep connections within the program, Thomas is eager to continue Longwood’s culture of success.
“I’m humbled and excited to be named head coach of the Lancers,” Thomas said. “So many great things have been done over the last seven years here, not just on the basketball floor but across campus, and we are ready to continue building with a lot of joy in the process.”
A Legacy of Growth
Before joining Longwood, Thomas served as associate head coach and recruiting coordinator at Guilford College, helping the team reach the NCAA Division III Elite Eight. Since arriving at Longwood, he has played a key role in recruiting and player development, contributing to the program’s first three consecutive 20-win seasons and back-to-back Big South championships.
Longwood athletic director Tim Hall praised Thomas’s leadership, saying, “During his five years at Longwood, Ronnie Thomas has earned the respect of players and everyone he’s come into contact with. He is ready to step up and lead our program.”
As the Lancers transition to this new chapter, the Farmville community and Longwood fans are eager to see Thomas build upon the foundation established under Aldrich.
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