ROCHESTER, Mich. - Brian Nelson, Director of Program Operations for the Oakland baseball team, has been named Interim Head Baseball Coach for the 2024-25 season, Oakland University Athletics announced today.
Nelson, who has been an integral part of the coaching staff, succeeds Jordon Banfield who stepped down to pursue new opportunities.
"First off, I can't thank Steve Waterfield and the entire Oakland athletic administration staff enough for this opportunity," Nelson said. "I am humbled and extremely grateful. Becoming the Interim Head Baseball Coach for Oakland is truly a dream come true for me and my family. I want to thank Coach Banfield for everything he has done to help elevate Oakland's baseball program to places it has never been before. Those efforts have laid a foundation of success that I am excited to continue to build upon."
The Bastrop, Texas, native steps into the role with a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to the program. Nelson joined the Oakland baseball coaching staff in 2021 and served as assistant coach until the 2024 season where he was appointed the Director of Program Operations. During his time as an assistant, the Golden Grizzlies saw significant improvements in both player performance and team dynamics as he helped guide the team to a school-record 60 wins over the 2022 and 2023 season and two Horizon League Championship game appearances. In his new role during the 2024 season, Nelson aided in the Golden Grizzlies historic statistical season as it set program records in runs scored (475), hits (590), triples (24), RBI (427), stolen bases (158) and tied for most wins in a season (31).
"From day one, our expectation will be to compete for Horizon League conference championships," Nelson said. "We have a roster full of great ball-players and even better people and I consider myself fortunate to serve them and this university. Exciting times ahead for the Golden Grizzlies!"
Nelson also played a pivotal role in compiling two of the best recruiting classes in program history, including both current standouts
Brandon Nigh and
Hunter Pidek, in 2021 and 2022. The 2023 recruiting class continued the upward trend of success as the Golden Grizzlies signed six student-athletes rated in the top-50 of their state by Prep Baseball Report (PBR), including four in the top-45.
"I am glad that Brian will be serving as interim head coach for the 2024-25 season," Oakland Director of Athletics Steve Waterfield said. "I look forward to seeing what the team accomplishes on and off the field under his leadership. Brian has been a staff member on some of the best teams in Oakland University baseball history and has built strong connections with returning and incoming players. Brian's connections with the players, familiarity with the program, coaching philosophy and character position the program well for success this upcoming season."
Nelson will assume his new role immediately and will lead the team through the upcoming season. The search for a permanent head coach will commence at the conclusion of the season.
