Tennessee State and men’s basketball coach Nolan Smith have agreed on a contract extension that will run through the 2030-2031 season.
“My staff and I are incredibly blessed to continue leading this program,” said Coach Smith. “Last season, we laid the foundation and established a clear standard for a winning culture. We’re excited, motivated, and ready to keep building something that makes the Tennessee State University community proud.”
The 2010 NCAA champion was hired after stints as an assistant coach with his alma mater, Duke, Louisville, and, most recently, Memphis.
He took over in place of the previous coach, Brian Collins, who was hired as an assistant coach with the Memphis Grizzlies.
In his first year as head coach at Tennessee State, Smith helped lead the Tigers to a 23-10 overall record and a 15-5 mark against the Ohio Valley Conference.
This marked the first 20-win season for TSU since the 2015-2016 season, claiming a share of the OVC regular season title. Coach Smith was named co-OVC Coach of the Year.
Senior forward Aaron Nkrumah played a starring role for Tennessee State, being named OVC Player of the Year after leading the conference in scoring (17.7) and steals (2.8).
The Tigers kept their winning ways going in the conference tournament, advancing to the title game where they beat Morehead State 93-67.
In a win that set a record for the largest margin of victory in an OVC championship game, TSU clinched its first NCAA tournament berth in 32 years.
“Nolan Smith has made an immediate and transformative impact on our program, leading with purpose, energy, and a commitment to excellence,” said Tennessee State Athletic Director Dr. Mikki Allen. “He is a winner whose passion for this university has energized our community and strengthened TSU basketball’s national profile. This well-deserved extension provides stability and momentum for the future, and we look forward to continued success under his leadership.”
