Tarleton State Extends Contract with Billy Gillispie

Billy Gillispie named the 15th head coach of Tarleton Men's Basketball

Billy Gillispie named the 15th head coach of Tarleton Men's Basketball | Image: Tarleton Sports/YouTube

The agreement of men’s basketball coach Billy Gillispie at Tarleton State is extended until 2026.

Gillispie, aged 64, went on a medical absence in November. Tarleton State recruited Gillispie prior to the 2020-21 campaign, with the Texans boasting a record of 63-51 (38-28 in the Western Athletic Conference) since.

Gillispie is now cleared to return to coaching duties but has opted to entrust the team to interim coach Joseph Jones. The Texans hold a record of 22-7 (15-3 in the WAC) and have the potential to secure a minimum of a part of the conference title if they emerge victorious in their last two regular-season matches this week, facing Utah Valley and Seattle at home.

“I have no restrictions but will remain in an advisory role for the rest of the season as our team is having a historic season. It’s been a joy to watch coach Joseph Jones and the staff lead the great young men to unprecedented heights and provide infinite excitement. I have never seen anyone do a better job,” he remarked.

Previously, Gillispie served as the head coach of UTEP (2002-04), Texas A&M (2004-07), Kentucky (2007-09), and Texas Tech (2011-12).

Additionally, on Wednesday, the university extended the contract of football coach Todd Whitten through 2027.

“The Texan Football and Men’s Basketball programs have established themselves as two of the best teams the UAC (United Athletic Conference) and WAC have to offer, and I have full confidence that Coach Whitten and Coach Gillispie will continue taking these programs to unprecedented heights,” incoming athletic director Steve Uryasz said.

“These are two truly great coaches and these extensions will allow them to build on their success for years to come.”

Whitten, aged 59, has accumulated a record of 104-53 at Tarleton State across fourteen seasons. The Texans concluded last season with an 8-3 mark. 

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