Ray Shovlain to Retire From St. Ambrose Basketball

The long-time head coach will conclude his tenure at the Davenport university following the 2026-27 basketball season.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Basketball

Ray Shovlain to Retire From St. Ambrose Basketball

St. Ambrose University announced on October 23, 2026, that men's basketball head coach Ray Shovlain will retire after the 2026-27 season. Shovlain has led the Davenport program for 44 seasons.

Why it matters

Shovlain has defined the St. Ambrose basketball program since 1983, achieving significant milestones and shaping the university's athletic legacy. His departure marks the end of a multi-decade era for the Fighting Bees.

Shovlain holds 749 career victories and has guided his teams to 10 NAIA National Tournament appearances. He recorded 18 seasons with at least 20 wins, including the 2004 campaign that saw the team set a school record with 32 victories.

The players

Ray Shovlain

He is the long-serving head coach of the St. Ambrose University men's basketball program who earned his MBA from the school in 1982.

St. Ambrose University

This private university located in Davenport, Iowa, has served as the home for Shovlain's coaching career since 1983.

The details

Since taking over in 1983, Shovlain has become a central figure at the university, earning the McMullen Award in 2026 and induction into the SAU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993. His 2004 squad remains the only team in program history to reach the NAIA Final Four.

1975: Shovlain led Clinton St. Mary's to a state championship.
1983: Shovlain began coaching the St. Ambrose men's basketball team.
2004: The team achieved a Final Four appearance and a 32-win record.
October 23, 2026: The university formally announced the upcoming retirement.
2026-27 season: Shovlain will coach his final season.

Season Trajectory

Shovlain's final season marks the conclusion of a tenure that historically elevated the program within the NAIA National Tournament. This transition necessitates a significant search for new leadership to maintain the competitiveness established by his 44-year career.

The upcoming 2026-27 season represents the final opportunity for supporters to watch Shovlain guide the team from the sidelines. Future seasons will require a total roster and strategy shift under a new head coaching regime.

The takeaway

Shovlain's legacy remains anchored in his record-breaking 2004 Final Four run and his long-term consistency. Fans and students are expected to honor his impact throughout his final year with the program.