Lakehead Men’s Basketball Head Coach Steps Down for New Opportunity

Thunder Bay, ON – Lakehead University announces that Ryan Thomson will be stepping down as head coach of the Lakehead Thunderwolves Men’s Basketball program to accept a new opportunity as Lead Assistant Coach for the Akita Northern Happinets in Japan’s B.League Premier. 

Thomson’s connection to Lakehead Basketball spans decades, first as a student-athlete and later as head coach. Joining the Thunderwolves in 2009, he was part of one of the most successful eras in program history. During his playing career, Lakehead captured the 2011 OUA Wilson Cup Championship, made four consecutive CIS Final 8 national championship tournament appearances, and claimed the 2011 CIS National Silver Medal. Those championship teams were recognized with induction into the Lakehead Athletics Wall of Fame in 2022, cementing their place among the university’s greatest athletic achievements.

Following his successful playing career, Thomson returned to his alma mater to lead the Thunderwolves from the sidelines. As head coach, he demonstrated a commitment to the student-athlete experience, emphasizing player development, academic success, and building a culture that reflected the values of Lakehead Athletics. His dedication to the program and the Thunder Bay community has left a lasting impact on countless student-athletes, alumni, and supporters.

“Ryan has made a tremendous impact on Lakehead Basketball, both as a student-athlete and as our head coach. His leadership, passion, and commitment to our student-athletes have built a strong foundation and a legacy we’re proud of. While we’re sad to see him leave, we’re excited for this next chapter in his career. We look forward to finding a coach who will build on that legacy, and we’re grateful for the continued support of our alumni, sponsors, and Thunderwolves community throughout this transition.”

— Tom Warden, Director of Athletics, Lakehead University

Reflecting on his decision, Thomson shared:

“Leading the Lakehead Men’s Basketball program has been one of the greatest challenges and experiences of my professional life. While it is difficult to close this chapter, I do so with immense pride in what we accomplished, together with our fans, and alumni but most importantly our student-athletes and staff. Our teams played hard, played with great togetherness and competed everyday. I am thankful for their effort, trust and belief.

I will always support Lakehead Basketball and hope to see the program achieve its ultimate goal of bringing a national championship to Thunder Bay and the best fans in the country.”

Lakehead Athletics extends its sincere appreciation to Thomson for his years of dedication to the men’s basketball program. From helping bring championship success to the university as a player to returning as head coach to mentor the next generation of Thunderwolves, his commitment to Lakehead Basketball has been evident. His leadership, passion, and care for his student-athletes have strengthened the foundation of the program and will leave a lasting legacy.

Coaching Search Underway

Lakehead Athletics will begin an immediate and comprehensive search for the next head coach of the men’s basketball program, who can continue to build on the proud tradition of Thunderwolves Basketball.

“We are committed to finding a leader who will continue to build on the strong foundation of our men’s basketball program while providing an exceptional experience for our student-athletes. This is an exciting opportunity to continue the proud tradition of Thunderwolves Basketball and position the program for future success.”

— Tom Warden, Director of Athletics, Lakehead University

Lakehead University remains deeply committed to the continued success and well-being of its student-athletes. The university is grateful for Ryan Thomson’s years of leadership and the positive impact he has had on the men’s basketball program. While his chapter with the Thunderwolves comes to a close, his legacy as both a student-athlete and head coach will remain an important part of the program’s history. Lakehead Athletics thanks Ryan for his outstanding contributions and wishes him every success in his new role.