Tennessee State University has named Nolan Smith as its new head men's basketball coach, bringing in a national champion, former NBA player, and one of the most respected young coaches in college basketball.
"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 as we prepare to win and proudly represent the university and the state. 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!"
Smith joins TSU following the 2024–25 season as an assistant coach at the University of Memphis under Penny Hardaway. At Memphis, he played a key role in player development and recruiting, helping guide a young roster through one of the toughest non-conference schedules in the country and a competitive American Athletic Conference slate.
"Nolan Smith is a championship-caliber leader with elite playing experience, high basketball IQ, and a proven track record of developing NBA talent," said Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen.Â
"He brings top-tier recruiting connections, a player-first approach, and a deeply authentic bond with today's student-athletes. Shaped by some of the game's best, Nolan will lead our program with integrity and impact on the court and in the community. Our future is in great hands."
Before Memphis, Smith served two seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Louisville (2022–24), where he was instrumental in roster development and known for his mentorship of guards. He joined Louisville after six seasons on the coaching staff at his alma mater, Duke University.
"If anyone is deserving of this position, it's Nolan," said Memphis head men's basketball coach Penny Hardaway on Smith's hire. "He is prepared and ready for the job. Nolan's time at Memphis was short, but he made a huge impact on our program. I'm very confident he will do the same at TSU."
Smith spent his entire playing career at Duke under Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski, widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history. That experience helped shape Smith's foundation as a tactician, motivator, and leader.
"I'm so happy for Nolan and his beautiful family," said Krzyzewski. "Nolan was an All-American and a national champion at Duke. He was a joy to coach, and our fans loved him — they called him 'The People's Champ.' 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."
Roaming the Cameron Indoor sidelines, Smith began as a special assistant before being promoted to director of basketball operations and player development. In 2021, he was elevated to assistant coach. During his tenure, he helped guide the Blue Devils to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Final Four run in 2022 and several ACC championships. Smith worked closely with NBA-bound stars such as Zion Williamson, Jayson Tatum, RJ Barrett, and Paolo Banchero. In total, 25 players he coached at Duke went on to the NBA.
As a player, Smith was one of the most decorated guards in Duke history. From 2007 to 2011, he helped lead the Blue Devils to the 2010 NCAA national championship. He was named the South Regional Most Outstanding Player and earned All-Final Four honors during that run. As a senior in 2011, Smith averaged 20.6 points per game, led the ACC in scoring, and was named ACC Player of the Year, ACC Tournament MVP, and a consensus First-Team All-American. He finished his collegiate career with 1,911 points, ranking 17th all-time in Duke history.
Smith was selected with the 21st overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers. He played two seasons in the NBA before continuing his professional career in the NBA G League and overseas, including stops in Croatia and Turkey.
Off the court, Smith is known for his activism and community engagement. He serves on the board of the Durham-based non-profit "The Brotherhood," which focuses on mentorship, empowerment, and education for young men of color. He's also been a national advocate for mental health awareness, player rights, and racial equity in college athletics.
Smith is the son of the late Derek Smith, a former NBA player and assistant coach, and has long carried on his father's legacy both on and off the court.
Smith and his wife, Cheyna, have three children: Camryn, Derek "Deuce," and Kai.
