News Summary
Nolan Smith, assistant coach for the Memphis Tigers, is reportedly finalizing a deal to become the head coach at Tennessee State University. Following the resignation of Brian ‘Penny’ Collins, Smith’s potential move signals a significant step in his coaching career. With a successful record at Memphis, including victories in the AAC championships, his departure could influence the coaching staff dynamics in Memphis. Fans and analysts are closely monitoring the negotiations as Smith’s experience and success in college basketball could play a vital role in shaping the team’s future.
Memphis, TN – Memphis Tigers assistant coach Nolan Smith is reportedly in discussions to become the next head coach of Tennessee State University. Sources indicate that Smith is in the process of “finalizing a deal” for the position, although no formal agreement has been established between him and the university at this time. Both parties are actively working to secure the agreement.
The head coaching position at Tennessee State became available on June 30, 2024, following the resignation of former coach Brian “Penny” Collins, who left to join an NBA coaching staff. As an assistant coach at Memphis, Smith has been influential in the team’s success during the 2024-25 season, which included a remarkable 29-6 record and victories in both the American Athletic Conference (AAC) regular-season championship and the conference tournament.
Nolan Smith joined the Memphis coaching staff on September 18, 2024, after spending the previous two seasons at the University of Louisville. Prior to his tenure at Louisville, he was part of Mike Krzyzewski’s distinctive coaching staff at Duke University for six seasons. His experience includes serving in an assistant coach role, contributing to the development of numerous athletes during his time there.
As a standout player at Duke, Smith achieved notable successes, including winning the national championship in 2010. He was later recognized as a first-team All-American and named the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Player of the Year in 2011. His accolades both as a player and as a coach highlight his significant expertise in college basketball.
Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway has expressed confidence in Smith’s coaching abilities, identifying him as “one of the brightest young coaches in college basketball.” Hardaway’s coaching staff at Memphis has seen recent changes, with the departures of assistant coaches Jordan VerHulst and Marcus Nunnally, a situation that may require further adjustments if Smith accepts the head coaching role at Tennessee State.
Smith’s potential departure from Memphis could signify another shift in Hardaway’s coaching lineup during a time of transition for the program. With the recent changes in the coaching staff, the Tigers are looking to maintain continuity and success within their basketball operations.
A move to Tennessee State for Smith would mark a significant step in his coaching career, presenting an opportunity to lead a program that aims to build on its competitive stature in NCAA basketball. As both sides work towards the finalization of an agreement, progress in negotiations will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
The impending decision continues to gather attention as the Tigers and their supporters anticipate what the future holds for their coaching staff and overall program dynamics. The decision from Tennessee State is awaited, as Smith’s coaching style, record of success, and rapport in the basketball community will play a crucial role in shaping the next chapter for the team.
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Additional Resources
- Commercial Appeal
- Wikipedia: Nolan Smith
- WREG
- Google Search: Nolan Smith Tennessee State
- Daily Memphian
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nolan Smith
- Duke Wire
- Google News: Nolan Smith
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
