Ayala returns to the Hilltop after serving as the lead assistant coach for the men's basketball program at Talladega College.
"I am thrilled to welcome Steve back to our Hilltopper family," St. Edward's head men's basketball coach Andre Cook says. "He has been such an integral part of our success during his seven years on the Hilltop. Steve knows the ins and outs of the program and did a great job during his year away for Chris Wright at Talladega. I know Steve will hit the ground running."
In his one-year stint at Talladega College, Ayala helped Head Coach Chris Wright develop a team that won 32 games and advanced to the NAIA National Championship game against Loyola University. Ayala was responsible for all scouting reports and assisted in the defensive game planning and offensive on court where the team ranked second in the country in points allowed per game and fourth in opponent field goal percentage.
"Steve brings a wealth of knowledge of St. Edward's University and our program," Cook says. "No time will be wasted in showing Steve the ropes."
Before departing for Talladega College, Ayala spent six years on the Hilltop with Head Coach Andre Cook as the student manager and graduate assistant. During his time at St. Edward's, Ayala was named the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches' Small College Student Assistant of the Year after helping the basketball program to a 27-4 record and two NCAA tournament appearances. The Hilltoppers logged a 132-55 record during his time on the staff.
A 2018 and 2020 graduate of St. Edward's University, Ayala holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Science in Leadership and Change.
