Tennessee State has officially named Nolan Smith its new head men’s basketball coach.
The Tigers will hand the reins to a former NCAA national champion, NBA veteran, and rising leader in the collegiate coaching ranks.
Smith, who joins TSU after the 2024–25 season as an assistant coach at the University of Memphis under Penny Hardaway, brings high-level experience and infectious enthusiasm to the Tigers. In his announcement, Smith expressed heartfelt excitement for the role and a determination to lead TSU to success.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to be named head coach at TSU,” Smith said. “First and foremost, I’m ready to give my heart and energy to our players every single day. I’m excited to immerse myself in the TSU and Nashville community and contribute far beyond the court. I’m built for this challenge — and TSU is built to win. So let’s win! Go Tigers!”
Nolan Smith has championship pedigree
Smith arrives in Nashville with a decorated track record:
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Championship pedigree: National champion and All-American as a player at Duke (2007–11).
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Coaching pedigree: Experience with renowned programs, including stints at Duke, Louisville, and Memphis, focusing on player development and recruitment.
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NBA experience: Drafted 21st overall in 2011 by the Portland Trail Blazers and played two years in the NBA.
At Memphis, Smith was pivotal in developing young talent and navigating the Tigers through a competitive season. His leadership and commitment to players drew praise from Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway and TSU’s Director of Athletics, Dr. Mikki Allen.
Let’s give a big #RoarCity welcome to our new @TSUTigersMBB head coach, Nolan Smith (@NdotSmitty)! 🐅👏 https://t.co/VmjEq1h1S8
— Tennessee State Athletics (@TSU_Tigers) July 18, 2025
“Nolan Smith is a championship-caliber leader with elite playing experience, high basketball IQ, and a proven track record of developing NBA talent,” said Dr. Allen. “He brings top-tier recruiting connections, a player-first approach, and a deeply authentic bond with today’s student-athletes.”
Smith learned under HOF Duke coach
Before his tenure at Memphis and Louisville, Smith spent six seasons on the coaching staff at his alma mater, Duke University, where he contributed to multiple NCAA tournament runs and worked with future NBA stars like Zion Williamson, Jayson Tatum, and Paolo Banchero. In total, 25 players he coached at Duke went on to the NBA.
Legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski praised Smith’s growth and readiness for the top job.
“Nolan was an All-American and a national champion at Duke. … He was also an exceptional assistant coach. Now, he’s ready to be an exceptional head coach at Tennessee State. I’m incredibly proud of him.”
Smith is also recognized for his activism and commitment to social causes. He serves on the board of the Durham non-profit “The Brotherhood” and advocates for mental health, student-athlete rights, and racial equity. He is the son of the late NBA player and coach Derek Smith and continues to honor his father’s legacy through mentorship and service initiatives.
Coming off a 17–16 season and third place in the Ohio Valley Conference, the Tigers are looking to build on recent successes. Smith will inherit a competitive core highlighted by returning standouts Aaron Nkrumah, Travis Harper II, and Carlous Williams.
The university will formally introduce Smith during a press conference on Monday, July 22, at 11 a.m. CT in the Tiger Den inside Hankal Hall, which will also stream live for fans unable to attend.
With Nolan Smith at the helm, optimism is high as Tennessee State aims to chart a new era of success on and off the court.
