MELBOURNE, Fla. – Florida Tech head women's basketball coach Ashley Raley-Ross announces the hire of Tia McMillian as assistant coach of the Panthers women's basketball program. McMillian brings a dynamic background of coaching, operations, and player development to Florida Tech, with a passion for mentoring scholar-athletes on and off the court.
 
"I am incredibly excited to have Tia join our coaching staff," said Raley-Ross. "As a former player, she understands what our program's culture and values will be. Her journey from player to coach brings a unique perspective that will inspire our athletes and elevate our team. Together, we are ready to take on new challenges and achieve great things with our Florida Tech Family."
 
McMillian joins Florida Tech after a successful stint at DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she most recently served as Coordinator of Athletic Operations while also leading the Regional High School Girls Team as Head Coach. In her roles at DME, she also served as an assistant coach for the Girls Post-grad, Girls High School National, and regional teams. Her impact extended beyond the court, managing travel coordination, game day operations, and program scheduling for the Academy's basketball programs.
 
"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join the Florida Tech women's basketball program and contribute to the vision Coach Ashley is building," said McMillian. "Having had the privilege of playing for her and growing under her mentorship, I've seen firsthand how deeply she values relationships, trust, and development—both on and off the court. That's what makes this opportunity so special: the chance to continue learning from someone who's had such a meaningful impact on my journey. I'm also sincerely thankful to Athletic Director Jamie Joss for his belief in me and for welcoming me into the Panther family.
 
"Florida Tech competes in a tough and talented Sunshine State Conference, and under Coach Ashley's leadership, the program is continuing to rise—building the right culture, uplifting those around us, and moving forward with an energy that sets a new standard."
 
During her time at DME, McMillian played a key role in the development of guards, implementing skill plans that enhanced ball handling, shooting, and overall basketball IQ. Her leadership helped guide the Girls' National Team to a National SIAA State Championship.
 
Her coaching resume includes international experience, having served as an assistant coach with Immaculate Sports Global's international team in Hong Kong in the summer of 2023, and as Director of Summer Camp Operations at DME Academy in 2024.
 
A former standout scholar-athlete at Queens University of Charlotte, McMillian was a two-year team captain and SAAC Leadership Representative. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2022.

For the latest news, updates, and information on the Florida Tech women's basketball program, visit FloridaTechSports.com. Fans can also stay up to date on the latest Panthers news by following Florida Tech Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.