OREM—Utah Valley University head men's basketball coach Todd Phillips has announced the addition of former professional standout and longtime college coach Silas Mills as the program's Director of Player Development.

Mills brings a wealth of experience to Orem after a 14-year professional playing career overseas and in the CBA, followed by more than 15 years of coaching at the college and high school levels.

He began his collegiate playing career at the University of Utah under Rick Majerus before transferring to Salt Lake Community College, where he played for legendary coach Norm Parrish. Mills was instrumental in helping SLCC reach its first-ever NJCAA National Tournament appearance and a top-five national ranking. He later transferred to Utah State University, where he played under Coach Larry Eustachy and helped lead the Aggies to a Big West Conference championship.

Professionally, Mills' career included stops in Greece, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Turkey, and France, in addition to the Yakima Sun Kings of the CBA, where he was named Finals MVP in 2000. His accolades include Big West First Team honors (1995-96), All-CBA First Team (2000), and CBA Playoff MVP.

Following his playing days, Mills turned to coaching and became an assistant coach at SLCC, helping guide the Bruins to multiple NJCAA Tournament berths and a national championship in 2016. He also spent time on staff at Garden City Community College before serving as head coach at American Leadership Academy Queen Creek High School from 2020-22. Most recently, he was the Director of Operations and head coach for BC Elite Basketball Club in Arizona.

"We're thrilled to add Silas to our program. He brings tremendous energy and a wealth of experience from playing professionally overseas," said Phillips. "His passion for the game and his ability to connect with players will make an immediate impact on our program."

Mills holds an associate degree from Lassen College and a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Utah State. He and his wife live in Arizona and have two daughters.