Billy Gillispie will not return to Tarleton State in 2026-27

Field Level Media|published: Fri 27th February, 13:23 2026

Nov 17, 2024; Waco, Texas, USA; Tarleton Texans head coach Billy Gillispie looks on against the Baylor Bears during the first half at Paul and Alejandra Foster Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images

Tarleton State head coach Billy Gillispie will not return next season, the university announced on Friday.

Texans associate head coach Glynn Cyprien is serving as the acting head coach in the absence of Gillispie, who has missed 11 games this season due to health issues.

"I can confirm that Coach Gillispie will not return next season. I wish him well and thank him for his leadership over the last six seasons," athletic director Steve Uryasz said. "We have begun a national search to find the next coach for our basketball program.

"Our athletic department is rooted in tradition and pride with tremendous support from Texan Nation. I am confident that we will identify and land a championship-caliber coach to continue our incredible momentum."

Gillispie owns a 92-89 record during his six seasons at Tarleton State, including a 14-15 mark in 2025-26. He was placed on administrative leave back in October while the university conducted an employee review on the heels of an anonymous complaint about his coaching style.

Gillispie, 66, has come under fire for his coaching style before. In September 2012, he resigned after one season at Texas Tech due to health concerns after facing allegations of player mistreatment.

Overall, he is 240-197 across 14 seasons at UTEP (2002-04), Texas A&M (2004-07), Kentucky (2007-09), Texas Tech (2011-12) and Tarleton State. His teams have reached the NCAA Tournament four times.

--Field Level Media

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