Russell Vanlandingham begins his fourth season at WTAMU as the assistant coach. He came to Canyon from McMurry University in Abilene, Texas where he held a similar position from 1995-2002.

Vanlandingham plays a vital role in all aspects of the basketball program, with a strong emphasis on recruiting, as well as scouting, practice, film, and game floor coaching and preseason conditioning supervision.

While Vanlandingham was coaching at McMurry, the Indians held a record of 123-35, winning three conference championships and being named co-conference champions twice.

The 1999-2000 team reached the Elite Eight and compiled a 27-2 record, while closing the season ranked third in the nation.

The 2000-2001 team held a 24-4 record, was ranked 13th in the nation in NCAA Division III, and ranked second in the nation in scoring with an average of 106 points per game. That squad was crowned regional champions as they advanced to the Sweet 16.

Vanlandingham earned his Bachelor's degree in Physical Education from McMurry University in 1995. He also received a Master's degree in Sports and Recreation Management from Hardin-Simmons University in 1998. While a student at McMurry, Vanlandingham was an All-Conference selection in basketball for two seasons, and was the team captain of the 1993-94 conference championship team. The 1993-94 team advanced to the final 16 in the NAIA national tournament.

Vanlandingham graduated from San Antonio's East Central High School in 1990 after playing on a state championship team in 1988 and a regional championship team in 1989.

During his coaching tenure at WTAMU, the Buffs have an overall record of 37-20, one Lone Star Conference title and have made one appearence to the Regional Tournament.

Vanlandingham and wife Amber have a son, Cooper (4 1/2 years old) and a daughter, Preslee (2 1/2).