Coaching Staff
Michael Orris | Assistant Coach
Former professional basketball player and NCAA Division I student-athlete Michael Orris joined the University of Mary men's basketball program as an assistant coach in July 2020 follwing an extremely successful basketball career, playing two seasons in the NBA G-League and twice competing in the NCAA “March Madness” basketball tournament.
“We are so excited to have Michael join our staff,” said Marauders Head Men’s Basketball Coach Joe Kittell. “He comes to us after a very impressive basketball career on the court and we know he will elevate our players. Michael’s knowledge and passion for basketball and people were unmatched in the hiring process and we are thrilled to have him be a part of the University of Mary men’s basketball program.”
A highly ranked prep player out of Illinois, Orris played his freshman year at Kansas State University in the Big 12 conference where he competed in the NCAA Division I National Tournament. He transferred closer to home to Northern Illinois before finishing his career at South Dakota State University. In his lone season at SDSU, Orris hit the game-winning shot in the Summit League semi-finals that propelled the Jackrabbits to the 2017 Summit League tournament championship and another trip to the NCAA Tournament. His game-winning shot was ranked #1 in SDSU’s March Madness moment poll this year.
After college Orris played two seasons in the NBA G-League for the Agua Caliente Clippers (LA Clippers), the Fort Wayne Mad Ants (Indiana Pacers), and the Capital City Go-Go (Washington Wizards). He has worked with the NBA G-League Windy City Bulls and as a personal basketball trainer.
“I am extremely humbled and honored for the opportunity that Coach Kittell has given me,” said Orris. “It speaks volumes to his character that he was willing to take a chance on me as I start my coaching career. Throughout the hiring process it was evident that the University of Mary is an extremely special place and I am beyond grateful to Athletic Director Dale Lennon, Vice President Jerome Richter, and President Monsignor James Shea for their trust in me. I am excited to get to campus and start working with the student athletes, staff members, and the community of Bismarck-Mandan.”
Michael is married to Kierra, a former Butler University assistant basketball coach. The couple are parents to twin sons Micah and Malachi.
What They Say About Him
“Michael Orris is one of the most selfless players that I have ever coached. It always felt like he was a coach on the floor. It was not hard to see that he was going to be a coach after his playing days. His ability to connect to young people and be a selfless example for the players will be invaluable as he starts his coaching career at the University of Mary.” – Eric Henderson, Head Coach, South Dakota State University
“Michael is super passionate about the game of basketball and has a very unique story to go along with it. He is the kind of guy who will do what is best for the team at all costs. He is a relationship builder and a glue guy; someone any team would be lucky to have.” – Mike Daum, South Dakota State University all-time leading scorer, Professional player in Spanish league ACB with Monbus Obradoiro
“Mike was a very hard worker as a player and showed his resilience as one of the top freshmen in the first-ever Big 12 Championship team in school history. He went on to have a great basketball career due to his work ethic, perseverance, and championship mentality. I can’t wait for him to share his knowledge to help Coach Kittell and the University of Mary.” - Alvin Brooks III, Assistant Coach Baylor University, former Assistant Coach at Kansas State University
“Michael was terrific during his time with us. He was a pleasure to coach and a player that truly knew how to lead by example. He has a great basketball IQ and a knack for setting his teammates up for success. I am confident he will be a great addition to the staff and a coach that the players will enjoy working with. Best of luck to him and his family during their new journey!” – Jarrell Christian, Assistant Coach, NBA Washington Wizards, former Head Coach for NBA G-League Capital City Go-Go.
Aaron Houle | Assistant Coach
Bio Coming Soon!
