EDINBURG – Lane Lord comes to UTRGV from Pittsburg State, a Division II school in Kansas.

Lord led the Gorillas to the elite eight twice and won close to 70 percent of his games during his 11 years with the program.

He’s excited to take over the UTRGV women’s basketball team.

Lord started his career at the high school level and worked his way up the ranks. UTRGV will be his first coaching job at the Division I level.

“The goal 14 years ago was to be a Division I head coach,” said Lane. “We’re here and we’re going to make the most of it. I’m humbled to be here. I’m also extremely excited.”

Lord replaces Larry Tidwell, UTRGV’s all-time winningest coach. Tidwell led UTRGV to their first post-season appearance as a Division 1 school.

“Larry has done a heck of a job turning this program around and putting it on the map,” said Lord. “My job is to take it one step further. On a yearly basis, compete for a WAC championship, obviously go to the NCAA tournament, but also win some games in the NCAA tournament.”

Lord grew up in Texas and plans on heavily recruiting the Lone Star State.

“Number one priority to recruit high school kids from winning programs from Texas,” said Lord. “Obviously we’ll sprinkle in some junior college and international kids as well. Obviously we’ll get to know all the high school coaches in the Valley. South Texas is our number one priority.”

UTRGV Athletic Director Chris King says Lord’s winning background played an influential role in his hiring.

“When we’re look at Coach Lord, he’s winning at almost .700 for his career and that’s pretty phenomenal,” said King. “He’s one of the most successful coaches in college basketball over the past decade, regardless of whether it’s a Division III, II, or I. If you can win, you can in.”

Just over a week into the job, Lord has already started recruiting players.