A talented coach who has made meaningful contributions to the Golden Eagles, Ryan Lew returns for his seventh season with the Cal State LA women’s basketball program. He has been a valuable assistant coach who has played a key role in the team’s growth and development both on and off the court.
Known for his energy, detailed-oriented approach and commitment to player development, Lew brings a global perspective and a deep passion for mentorship to his coaching.
Lew helped the Golden Eagles to another successful season in 2024-25. Cal State LA went 18-10 overall and 13-9 in conference play and made a fourth straight appearance in the California Collegiate Athletic Association Tournament for the first time ever. The Golden Eagles were ninth in the final NCAA West Region poll and narrowly missed a third straight trip to the NCAA playoffs.
Lew joined the Golden Eagles in the 2019-20 season when Torino Johnson became the head coach. He has helped the Golden Eagles to an 81-62 record in his first five seasons and has helped the program earn 19 All-CCAA awards, two All-Region and one All-American in guard Nicole Flennaugh during his time with the program.
The Golden Eagles have reached the CCAA Tournament four times and the NCAA Tournament twice during his tenure.
Lew graduated from Arizona State University, where he earned his degree in Sports Business and Media Studies, blending his understanding of athletics, communication and leadership into his coaching style.
Before his college career, Lew attended Shanghai American School, where he was a three-sport varsity athlete in basketball, soccer, and rugby — experiences that shaped his competitive mindset and team-first philosophy.
Lew’s coaching journey has been guided and influenced by respected mentors such as Torino Johnson, Frank Allocco Jr., Jimmy Estrada and Eric Swan, whose impact continues to inspire his approach to the game. Dedicated to empowering student-athletes and building a championship culture, Lew strives to help every player reach their fullest potential – on the court, in the classroom and in life.
