Ken Ammann stands as the longest-tenured coach in Concordia University Irvine history, with 23 years of leading the CUI Golden Eagles men’s basketball program. His milestone victory, number 500, not only cements his legacy but also places him among a small and prestigious group of head coaches who have achieved this rare feat.
Ammann’s leadership has seen the Golden Eagles maintain an impressive average of 23 wins per season for the past two decades, boasting an overall record of 504-205 and an enviable winning percentage of .711. He made history by becoming the first 400-game winner in Concordia coaching across all sports. Furthermore, his remarkable coaching style has led the team to secure two NAIA National Championships and four NAIA National Championship appearances, in addition to four appearances in the PacWest Conference Tournament.
Under Ammann’s guidance, the Golden Eagles have achieved 20 wins in 16 of his 22 seasons at the helm, achieving 30 victories in a single season on six occasions. The program’s success under his mentorship is evident, considering it had only managed eight winning campaigns since its establishment in 1981.
Ammann’s unwavering commitment and integrity have earned him the distinguished title of NAIA Coach of the Year twice, as well as the esteemed 2020 Harry Statham Coach of Impact Award. This accolade is a testament to his outstanding character and the profound impact he has had on the lives of those he has coached.
The transformation of the Concordia men’s basketball program into a national powerhouse has been a hallmark of Ammann’s coaching career, particularly during the transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II. His leadership was pivotal in guiding the Golden Eagles through the challenging seasons brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, culminating in their triumphant return to the PacWest Conference Tournament in the 2021-22 season.
One of the standout seasons for the Eagles was in 2018-2019, when they achieved their first-ever NCAA DII Tournament appearance, securing an at-large bid and advancing to the PacWest Conference Championship Game for the first time. The team’s remarkable performance included an impressive home record of 12-1 and an undefeated streak of 11-0 against PacWest opponents at CU Arena. These achievements led to a second-place finish in the conference, with an overall record of 23-11 and an outstanding 18-4 conference mark.
Ammann’s coaching prowess has also garnered success in the earlier years of the team’s transition to NCAA Division II, evident in their postseason eligibility, conference tournament victories, and remarkable overall records.
Since assuming the role of head coach in 2001, Ammann has undeniably left an indelible mark on the world of collegiate basketball, honing the skills of numerous outstanding players. His exceptional coaching career has produced 20 All-Americans, multiple award winners, and a noteworthy pipeline of talent from Australia to CUI’s men’s basketball roster.
Ammann’s impressive coaching career and leadership are rooted in his own experience as a standout player at Stanford. His academic and athletic achievements reflect his dedication, both on and off the court, earning him a place in the Edison Hall of Fame and recognition as an Academic All-American.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ammann’s commitment to his family and community is evident in his role as a husband and father of five children. His influence extends far beyond the basketball court, impacting the lives of many and transforming Concordia’s men’s basketball program into a force to be reckoned with.
Ammann’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment, integrity, and exceptional leadership, and it continues to be celebrated as he embarks on his 23rd year at the helm of the CUI Golden Eagles men’s basketball program.