GREENWOOD – Lander men's basketball head coach Omar Wattad announced the promotion of Sebastian Augustave to assistant coach today.

Augustave played five seasons for the Bearcats from 2020-21 through 2024-25. He served in a player/Graduate Assistant role during his final year in uniform and was a Graduate Assistant last season when Lander made its unforgettable run to the NCAA Division II National Championship game in Indianapolis.

"Bash and I have been together from Day 1 here," Coach Wattad said. "Early on, as a freshman, I knew he had the tools to coach. He's smart, personable, high basketball IQ, loyal and unafraid of conflict, but has a delicate touch to him as well.

"I'm lucky to have him in my life. The Catz just got better today!"

Augustave was a member of the 2023-24 Bearcats when they made a run to the Sweet Sixteen for only the second time in program history. He was also on the 2022-23 squad that saw Lander compete in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in seven years.

"I'm very blessed and excited to continue my journey with the Catz," Augustave said.

Lander will open the 2026-27 campaign November 7-8 at the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic in Lakeland, Florida.