Shocking Shakeup: UAB Fires AD, Names Hoops Coach Andy Kennedy Interim
UAB Athletics Gets a New Leader: What You Need to Know
The Big News
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) just announced a major change in its sports department. After 11 years as the Director of Athletics, Mark Ingram is stepping down. Think of the Director of Athletics like the "principal" of all sports programs — they oversee everything from football and basketball to facility upgrades and conference memberships.
Important Point: This isn’t a firing — it’s a planned leadership transition. The university says it’s the right time for a fresh perspective as college sports undergo massive changes.
Why This Matters: Ingram’s Legacy
During his 11-year tenure, Ingram helped UAB Athletics achieve some huge milestones. Here’s the highlight reel:
- Brought Back Football — After the program was controversially dropped in 2014, Ingram oversaw its triumphant return in 2017 (along with bowling and rifle teams)
- Major Facility Upgrades — New buildings, renovations, and investments across campus
- Conference Upgrade — Moved UAB from Conference USA to the American Athletic Conference (AAC) — a bigger, more competitive league
- Championships Galore — Multiple conference titles in football, men’s basketball, and other sports
- Student-Athlete Focus — Consistent support for athletes’ success on and off the field
Think of it like this: Ingram took a program that had lost its football team and turned it into a conference champion in a better league with better facilities.
Why Now? The "Changing Landscape" of College Sports
University President Ray L. Watts explained that college athletics is transforming rapidly. Here’s what’s driving the change:
- Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) — Athletes can now earn money from endorsements
- Transfer Portal — Players can switch schools more freely than ever
- Conference Realignment — Leagues are reshuffling for TV money and exposure
- Revenue Sharing — New models may require schools to directly pay athletes
Key Insight: UAB wants a leader who can navigate this new world — someone who can innovate, fundraise, engage fans, and build partnerships.
Meet the Interim Leader: Andy Kennedy
While UAB searches for a permanent replacement, Andy Kennedy will step in as Interim Director of Athletics.
Who Is He?
- UAB Legend — Former player, assistant coach, and now head coach of men’s basketball
- Winner — Multiple conference championships and postseason appearances since returning in 2020
- Respected — Known for player development and raising the program’s national profile
- Homegrown — Deep ties to the university and Birmingham community
Fun Fact: Kennedy is one of the few people who’s been a player, assistant, AND head coach at the same Division I program.
What Happens Next? The Search Process
UAB has launched a national search for the next permanent Athletic Director. Here’s how it typically works:
- Search Committee Formed — University leaders, trustees, former athletes, and community members
- Candidate Profile Created — Defining the skills, experience, and vision needed
- National Recruitment — Reaching out to sitting ADs, deputy ADs, and rising stars at other schools
- Interviews & Vetting — Multiple rounds, background checks, stakeholder feedback
- Final Selection — President Watts makes the hire with Board of Trustees approval
- Transition Period — New AD works with Kennedy for a smooth handoff
UAB’s Vision for the Future
The university laid out clear priorities for the next era:
| Priority | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Student-Athlete Success | Academic support, mental health, career prep, NIL guidance |
| Fan Engagement | Better game-day experiences, digital content, community events |
| Community Partnerships | Stronger ties with Birmingham businesses, alumni, and youth sports |
| Fundraising Excellence | Facility projects, endowments, NIL collectives, capital campaigns |
| Sustainable Competitive Model | Smart budgeting, revenue diversification, long-term planning |
Backed by Leadership: The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees fully supports this direction.
Summary
- Mark Ingram stepped down after 11 successful years as UAB’s Athletic Director
- His tenure included football’s return, facility upgrades, AAC move, and multiple championships
- Andy Kennedy (beloved basketball coach) serves as interim AD
- A national search is underway for the permanent replacement
- The change reflects massive shifts in college sports (NIL, transfers, realignment)
- UAB’s future focus: athlete welfare, fan experience, community, fundraising, sustainability
FAQ
Was Mark Ingram fired?
No. This was described as a mutual leadership transition. President Watts praised Ingram’s "important role in the growth and evolution of UAB Athletics" and wished him "continued success."
How long will Andy Kennedy be interim AD?
Until a permanent hire is made. National searches typically take 3–6 months, but there’s no fixed timeline. Kennedy will coach basketball and run the department simultaneously.
What is the American Athletic Conference (AAC)?
A "Group of Five" conference that includes schools like Memphis, Tulane, UTSA, and North Texas. It’s considered a step up from Conference USA in competition, exposure, and media revenue.
Will this affect UAB’s sports teams day-to-day?
Not immediately. Coaches still coach. Athletes still practice and play. Kennedy provides continuity. Long-term strategy may shift with the new permanent AD.
How can fans support UAB during this transition?
Show up! Attend games, donate to the UAB Athletics Foundation, engage on social media, and spread pride in the Blazers brand. Fan energy matters more than ever in the new college sports economy.
Go Blazers!