Jaylen Franklin returned to his alma mater as part of the coaching staff in June 2023.

Franklin had been coaching at Hardin-Simmons before returning to his alma mater this year. He also played internationally for Tbilisi in the Republic of Georgia.
 
"I am so glad that J Frank is back at ACU!  His experience as a player in our program will be invaluable to our current roster," said Tanner. "Jaylen knows how I operate and knows what I want from our players. He can bring a unique perspective that nobody else can when it comes to helping these guys out."
 
Franklin played four seasons at ACU earning numerous Southland Conference honors, including Freshman of the Year and two-time All-Defensive. He racked up 1,450 points, 418 rebounds, 506 assists and 220 steals. He started every game of his junior and senior seasons.