On May 27, 2002, Tubbs returned to Lamar University as Director of Athletics. Ten months later, on March 21, 2003, he also became Lamar's head basketball coach for the second time. In March 2006, Tubbs resigned as head coach, but remained as Director of Athletics. He was succeeded by Steve Roccaforte. On June 14, 2010, Tubbs resigned as athletic director to become special advisor to Lamar University President James Simmons on athletics. He was succeeded by Larry Tidwell. Tubbs retired at the end of August 2011.