University of Houston hires UNM’s Eddie Nunez as athletic director

Field Level Media|published: Sat 17th August, 18:27 2024

Mar 28, 2024; Dallas, TX, USA; Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson (R) talks to TV commentators Grant Hill (L) and Bill Raftery (C) during practice at American Airline Center. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

The University of Houston announced the hiring of Eddie Nunez, formerly of the University of New Mexico, as its athletic director on Saturday.

The school announced the five-year contract for Nunez, including the title of vice president for intercollegiate athletics. Vice president was a title he previously carried with the Lobos following a promotion in 2021.

Nunez will be formally introduced at a press conference in Houston on Wednesday.

"Eddie Nunez brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success during a time of great transformation in college athletics," president Renu Khator said. "His leadership will be critical as we continue to elevate our athletics programs, enhance the student-athlete experience and build on the tremendous momentum at the University of Houston."

Serving as New Mexico athletic director since 2017, Nunez oversaw 22 Mountain West Conference championships and 53 NCAA Tournament appearances across the school's athletics programs.

Prior to that, Nunez worked in the athletic department at LSU for 14 years, helping to spur facility renovations and multimedia negotiations.

A native of Miami, Fla., Nunez played college basketball for the University of Florida under Billy Donovan, appearing in 13 games over two seasons (1996-98).

The Cougars' previous athletic director was Chris Pezman, with whom the school parted ways in June..

--Field Level Media