Smith Returns to Tennessee to lead Sewanee Men's Basketball

Smith Returns to Tennessee to lead Sewanee Men's Basketball

(From Sewanee's website)

SEWANEE, Tenn. - Ryan "Bubba" Smith has been named the 21st coach in Sewanee's 84 seasons of varsity men's basketball, according to Mark Webb, Sewanee's athletic director. "Coach Smith brings proven experience to Sewanee after serving at the helm of a successful basketball program that is steeped in tradition. He is an outstanding teacher of the game and is well-respected throughout the ranks of the basketball coaching community," added Webb.

Smith comes to the Mountain from Hampden-Sydney College where, as head coach for the last five seasons, he has compiled a 94-46 (.671) record including two ODAC championships and two NCAA Tournament appearances. During his three years as an assistant coach, Smith assisted Tony Shaver as the duo led the Tigers to 75 wins, two ODAC titles and an appearance in the 2003 NCAA Division III Final Four.

As a player, Bubba Smith was a four-year letterman at Furman University from 1995-99. He was also the team captain for the 1998-99 season. The Hendersonville native was also a four-year player at Hendersonville High School, class of 1995. Smith and his wife Cortney will live in Sewanee with their four children Isaac (7), Mary B. (5), Emma (2), and Isabelle, who was born last week.

A few words from Coach Smith:
I am excited about becoming the 21st men's basketball coach at Sewanee. It is a great honor to be associated with such a prestigious institution.  From the moment my wife and I stepped foot on the campus, we immediately felt like we were at home. There is no question that Sewanee is special, and I hope to build upon the success that has been a part of Sewanee's past, as we look forward to growing the men's basketball program. I'm passionate about attracting young men to Sewanee who have a commitment to excellence in their academic, athletic, social, and personal growth. I have been blessed over the last eight years as an assistant and head coach to lead young men that have made me a better person and coach. The successes our players have had on the court have been equally as impressive as their accomplishments off, and I envision the same for our student-athletes at Sewanee. I am looking forward to working with our young men, connecting with former players and alumni, and making this journey a family affair. My wife Cortney and our four children, Isaac, Mary B., Emma, and Isabelle are eager to get settled and begin this exciting adventure with Sewanee Basketball.    

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