FORT SMITH, Ark. - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Women's Basketball Head Coach has completed his coaching staff for the 2022-23 season, announcing the hiring of Shatoia Gober and Alexus Thomas as assistant coaches.

"I am thrilled at the opportunity to work with and learn from two up and coming coaches in our game," McAdams said. "This is an exciting time for our program and both coaches so far have brought tremendous energy, great work ethic, and their experience to the table. I couldn't be happier to have them come aboard."

Gober most recently served as a graduate assistant coach at Lone Star Conference foe Midwestern State, where she also played from 2011-15. With the Mustangs, Gober was involved in guard development while also assisting in game and practice preparation. Under her tutelage, Gober coached four All-LSC performers in her three seasons as an assistant.

"I am thrilled to be a part of the Lions family," Gober said. "A lot of new faces and a great opportunity to get better as a whole. I want to thank Coach McAdams and Curtis Janz for the opportunity and I'm excited for this new journey."

As a player at MSU, Gober averaged 9.2 points and 5.7 rebounds per game during Midwestern's run to the South Central Regional final in 2013. Gober earned All-Lone Star Conference honorable mention as a senior when she scored 8.9 points, grabbed 5.5 rebounds, and dished out 3.2 assists per game in 2014-15.

Following her playing career, Gober was an assistant coach for Team Texas AAU for one season. She then took the position of head coach at Christ Academy for three seasons, where she also served as an assistant cross country and track & field coach.

Gober earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sports, Kinesiology and Physical Education/Fitness from Midwestern State in 2016 and a Master of Education in Sport and Fitness Administration Management from MSU in 2022.

"Coach Gober's experience in the Lone Star Conference will benefit us in various ways," McAdams said.  "Her playing and coaching experience in Wichita Falls will lend itself to all areas of her role. She worked under a great person and coach in Chris Reay and I look forward to her impact on our program."

Thomas comes to Fort Smith as a Little Rock native and having spent the last season as an assistant coach for Lady Rebels AAU. During that time Thomas was also a middle school teacher for health, math and physical education.

Thomas officiated games for Hardwood Basketball Tournaments in 2021 after earning her master's degree from Coastal Carolina.

"What a great opportunity it is to join an up-and-coming organization!" Thomas exclaimed. "Thank you to Coach McAdams for believing in a young coach. I look forward to bringing new ideas to the program as well as learning under the direction of Coach McAdams."

Prior to her time in Conway, South Carolina, Thomas played two seasons at NCAA III Calvin University after earning All-State honors in high school. After her playing career, Thomas transitioned to an assistant coaching role for the Knights. She also served an internship with the NBA G League's Grand Rapids Drive assisting with player development and drills during the 2017-18 season.

Thomas earned her Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology from Calvin in 2020 and a Master of Science in Sport Management from Coastal Carolina in 2021.

"Coach Thomas has roots in Little Rock and knows Arkansas. Her contributions to the game in our state as a club coach and an official is important and valuable," McAdams said.