SILVER CITY, N.M. – Western New Mexico University Athletics and Head Women's Basketball Coach Brenda Nichols have announced the addition of Erika Warren to the coaching staff as an assistant coach ahead of the upcoming season.
Warren arrives in Silver City with experience at multiple levels of collegiate basketball, bringing a strong background in player development, recruiting, scouting, game preparation, and program operations. Most recently, she served as Director of Basketball Operations for the women's basketball program at California State University, Bakersfield during the 2025-26 season. Prior to her time at CSU Bakersfield, Warren worked as an assistant women's basketball coach at Emporia State University during the 2024-25 campaign and spent two seasons as an assistant coach and resident advisor at Clarendon College from 2022-24.
"A previous Division I guard at UTEP, Coach E brings high-level playing experience, a player-first mentality, and a relentless work ethic to the Mustang program," said Head Coach Brenda Nichols. "Her expertise in guard development, decision-making, and skill training helps elevate our team's competitiveness while maintaining championship standards. Off the court, she is committed to academic success, mentoring student-athletes and supporting their progress toward graduation. We are excited to welcome Coach E to the Mustang family."
A former standout student-athlete, Warren's playing career has provided the foundation for her coaching philosophy and passion for mentoring young women. A native of Tyler, Texas, she earned numerous accolades during her high school career, including MVP, Female Athlete of the Year, District Offensive Player of the Year, and McDonald's All-American nominee honors.
Warren continued her basketball journey at Midland College, where she played guard and helped lead the Lady Chaps to the 2010 Region Championship. During her time at Midland, she earned All-Conference and All-Region recognition while being ranked as the nation's No. 3 small forward by Dan Olson's Collegiate Girls Basketball Report. She later transferred to the University of Texas at El Paso, where she helped the Miners capture the 2012 Conference USA Championship and earn a berth in the NCAA Tournament.
Her experience competing at both the junior college and NCAA Division I levels has shaped her approach to coaching and student-athlete development. Warren is committed to building meaningful relationships with players while fostering a positive team culture that emphasizes growth, accountability, and success on and off the court.
"I would like to thank Brenda and the entire WNMU administration for the opportunity to join this outstanding program," Warren said. "I am excited to work alongside Coach Brenda and our student-athletes as we continue building a culture of excellence. WNMU has a strong tradition, and I look forward to contributing to the success of the program while becoming an active member of the Silver City community."
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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).
