Nashville – Tennessee State University has officially named Nolan Smith as its new head coach for the men’s basketball program, signaling a bold step forward for the Tigers as they look to build on recent success in the Ohio Valley Conference.
Smith, a Duke alum, 2010 NCAA champion, former NBA player and respected young coach joins TSU after serving as an assistant under Penny Hardaway at the University of Memphis for the 2024–25 season. Prior roles included two years on Louisville’s staff and six years on Duke’s coaching team, where he helped develop 25 future NBA players.
A Homecoming Meets A New Challenge
Smith steps into his first head coaching role, succeeding Brian “Penny” Collins, who departed June 30 to take an NBA assistant position. He takes the helm of a program that finished 17–16 overall and 12–8 in the OVC, earning third place in the conference.
From “The People’s Champ” to Leader of the Tigers
Under Coach K at Duke, Smith earned the nickname “The People’s Champ.” He was a 2010 NCAA Tournament standout and an ACC Player of the Year in 2011. Smith’s NBA tenure followed, after being selected 21st overall in the 2011 draft by the Portland Trail Blazers.
Vision Beyond The Court
In announcing his hire, Smith said, “It’s an honor and a privilege to be named head coach at TSU. I’m built for this challenge, and TSU is built to win. So let’s win! Go Tigers!”
TSU Athletic Director Dr. Mikki Allen praised Smith’s “championship-caliber leadership, elite playing experience, high basketball IQ, and a proven track record of developing NBA talent”. Memphis’s Penny Hardaway echoed that sentiment, adding, “He is prepared and ready for the job … I’m very confident he will do the same at TSU”. Duke legend Mike Krzyzewski also praised his protégé: “Now, he’s ready to be an exceptional head coach at Tennessee State. I’m incredibly proud of him.”
Off‑Court Impact & Community Commitment
Smith isn’t only known for his basketball acumen; he’s an active community advocate. He serves on the board of “The Brotherhood,” a mentorship non-profit, and champions mental health awareness, student‑athlete rights, and racial equity. He and his wife Cheyna are parents to three children.
What’s Next for the Tigers?
Smith inherits a solid core of returning players, guards Aaron Nkrumah and Travis Harper II, along with forward Carlous Williams who are expected to build on last season’s momentum. With Smith’s arrival, the Tigers aim to strengthen on-court performance and deepen community engagement under his vision. This marks a pivotal moment for Tennessee State. A calculated investment in a coach with championship pedigree, NBA connections, and an inclusive vision for both the team and Nashville. As Smith said, “Let’s win!” and with him steering the ship, Tigers fans have plenty to be excited about.
