Auburn University’s women’s basketball program has made a significant addition to its staff with the hiring of Hong Tran as the Director of Women’s Basketball Strength & Conditioning. Tran brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in athletic performance, which is expected to enhance the team’s physical preparedness and overall competitiveness in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Hong Tran joins Auburn after serving as the Director of Women’s Basketball Strength & Conditioning at Southern Methodist University (SMU) during the 2024–25 season. Prior to her tenure at SMU, she was the Director of Sports Performance for Women’s Basketball at the University of Cincinnati for three seasons. During her time at Cincinnati, Tran developed the “BUILT BY HONG” performance model, which integrated physical training with mental health support, preparing the team for its transition to the Big 12 Conference. Her innovative approach earned her a nomination for UC’s One Team Award, recognizing her contributions to the program’s success

Tran’s career also includes roles as Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning at Western Kentucky University (2017–2021), where she contributed to championship seasons for both women’s basketball and women’s soccer. Her earlier experience at the University of South Florida (2014–2017) involved working with multiple sports, including softball, football, and track and field, reflecting her versatility and comprehensive understanding of athletic performance

Tran holds both a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree in sport administration and recreation with a concentration in intercollegiate athletics from Saint Leo University. She is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and a USA Weightlifting Level 1 Sports Performance Coach. Additionally, she is certified as a Speed Specialist by the National Association of Speed and Explosion (NASE) and has completed the USTFCCCA Strength and Conditioning program. Her certifications underscore her commitment to professional development and excellence in the field of athletic performance

Tran’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Auburn’s women’s basketball program. Under the leadership of Head Coach Johnnie Harris, the team has shown steady improvement, culminating in a 20–12 record and an NCAA Tournament appearance in the previous season . Tran’s expertise in strength and conditioning is expected to further enhance the team’s performance, particularly in terms of physical resilience and injury prevention Her holistic approach to athlete development, which includes mental health support, aligns with the program’s emphasis on comprehensive player well-being. By integrating physical training with psychological preparedness, Tran aims to foster a culture of excellence and resilience within the team. Hong Tran’s addition to the Auburn women’s basketball staff represents a strategic move to bolster the program’s competitive edge in the SEC. Her extensive experience, innovative training methodologies, and commitment to athlete well-being position her as a valuable asset to the team. As the Tigers aim for continued success, Tran’s role in enhancing the players’ physical and mental preparedness will be instrumental in achieving the program’s goals.