After spending four seasons as the head student manager for the men's basketball program, Jalen Patton was promoted to Director of Basketball Operations on August 19, 2024 by UNA head coach Tony Pujol.
Patton enters his sixth season with the program in 2025-26, including his second season as the DOBO. He also serves as the team's video coordinator.
Patton was a key factor in the program's success in 2024-25, helping the Lions win the school's first ASUN Regular Season Championship in any sport. The Lions finished 24-11 overall and 14-4 in conference play, tying with Lipscomb for the regular season championship. UNA went on to win two games in the ASUN Tournament, falling in the ASUN Championship Game. The Lions went on to receive a bid in the National Invitational Tournament (NIT) for the first time in school history.
The Fayette, Alabama native has served the program in many ways as a student manager that last four seasons, including assistance with film, equipment, practice statistics and meals, among other roles.
Patton graduated from the University of North Alabama in August 2024 with a bachelor's degree in Sport & Recreation Management.
