Nico Yantko Named Top AD in America by Silver Waves Media

Murray State Director of Athletics Nico Yantko has been recognized for his visionary approach to the new landscape of men's college basketball by being named one of the top ADs in America by Silver Waves Media.

Yantko is one of 70 college leaders who made the list, and the only Director of Athletics from the Missouri Valley Conference to be selected.

"Nico's recognition as one of the nation's top athletics directors is a reflection of the extraordinary leadership and innovation he brings to Murray State each day," University President Dr. Ron Patterson said. "Under his guidance, our athletics department has achieved remarkable success while remaining steadfast in its commitment to developing student-athletes. This honor is not only a testament to Nico's leadership, but also to the vision he has cultivated throughout our department. We are proud to celebrate this achievement and look forward to the continued success of Murray State Athletics and Racer Basketball under his direction."

"Being named among the top athletics directors in the nation by Silver Waves Media is an incredible honor, and is a direct reflection of our entire team," Yantko said. "Every achievement we celebrate is the result of the dedication and passion of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, university leadership and investors. Together, we have built a program that prioritizes excellence in competition, academics and service, and I am deeply grateful for everyone who has contributed to our success. This recognition belongs to Racer Nation, and it motivates us to continue striving for even greater accomplishments in the years ahead."

Yantko has reshaped the trajectory of Murray State Basketball after hiring Ryan Miller on March 17, 2025. The duo helped the Racers secure their first 20-win season in four years and record 12 wins in Missouri Valley Conference play, the team's most since joining the league.

"This recognition comes as no surprise to those of us who have the privilege of working alongside Nico every day," head men's basketball coach Ryan Miller said. "He is a tremendous leader who genuinely cares about the success of our program. Nico has created an environment where excellence is expected and where programs are given the resources and support needed to compete at the highest level. Being named one of the top athletics directors in the country is a well-deserved honor, and I am grateful for his leadership, vision and unwavering commitment to making Murray State men's basketball one of the premiere programs in the nation."

The excitement for the 2025-26 campaign and Miller's first year came well before the ball was tipped, when the department saw a 92 percent renewal rate for season tickets. The renewal percentage was the program's largest since 2022.

With the team's success, the department realized a 25 percent increase in men's basketball revenue.

The future of the program looks extremely bright, with the Racers anticipated to head into the 2026-27 with the best recruiting class in program history and the best in the MVC. That talent will be backed by high-level resources, a newly-renovated arena and a bold vision for competitive excellence.

Established in 2020, Silver Waves Media is dedicated to helping sports professionals and athletes advance their careers to the next stage. Founded by Ryan Silver, the purpose of Silver Waves Media is to lift up others in the sports world and highlight the success and achievements of those around us.

Over the last two years, Murray State has raised a school-record $43 million dollars in support of new facilities, initiatives and championship resources. That total was made possible by 15, seven-figure gifts, which also amounts to the most in department history.

The $43 million is committed towards the department's bold, comprehensive $100 million fundraising campaign, Leading The Pack, which was created to further position itself for the future by investing in student-athlete success and wellness, revenue share and competitive resources and world-class facilities.

Learn more about how you can support the campaign by clicking HERE.

Follow Murray State men's basketball on X and Instagram (@RacersHoops). Follow the Racers on X (@MSURacers), Instagram (@RacersAthletics) and Facebook to stay up-to-date on all that is happening with Murray State Athletics.

Murray State University Athletics

Nico Yantko Named Top AD in America by Silver Waves Media

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