Tarleton State Coach Billy Gillispie Placed on Administrative Leave Amid Investigation

In a significant development for college basketball, Tarleton State University announced on Friday that head coach Billy Gillispie has been placed on temporary administrative leave. This decision follows an anonymous complaint received by the university earlier this week, prompting an internal investigation. Associate head coach Glynn Cyprien has stepped in as the acting head coach during this period.

Background of the Investigation

While the university has not disclosed the specifics of the complaint or the timeline for the investigation, this is not the first time Gillispie has faced scrutiny regarding his coaching methods. In 2011 and 2012, while at Texas Tech, he was the subject of allegations concerning player mistreatment. His tenure there ended with his resignation, which he attributed to health issues, shortly after the university announced it was looking into complaints from players about his treatment.

Gillispie’s coaching career has been marked by both success and controversy. He was dismissed from his position at Kentucky in 2009, with the athletic director stating that he “wasn’t the right fit for the program.” This dismissal led to a $3 million settlement between Gillispie and the university, highlighting the tumultuous nature of his coaching career.

Gillispie’s Coaching Record

Currently, Gillispie is in his sixth season with the Tarleton State Texans, where he has compiled a record of 78 wins and 74 losses. His most recent season saw the team achieve a commendable 25-10 record and make an appearance in the College Insider Tournament (CIT). Over his 13 seasons as a head coach, Gillispie has accumulated a career record of 226-182, including four NCAA tournament appearances.

Gillispie’s coaching style is characterized by high energy and a focus on rapid program turnarounds. His career has spanned various high-profile positions, including stints at Arkansas State, Auburn, and UCF, in addition to his current role at Tarleton State.

A Closer Look at Billy Gillispie

Billy Gillispie, 65, has built a reputation as a dynamic coach capable of revitalizing struggling programs. His coaching journey began in Arkansas high schools, where he led teams at Hughes, Shiloh Christian, and Springdale High from 1991 to 2005. He then transitioned to college football, serving as offensive coordinator at Arkansas in 2006 and later at Tulsa from 2007 to 2008.

Gillispie’s time at Auburn from 2009 to 2011 was particularly notable, as he served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach during the Tigers’ 2010 national championship season. His head coaching debut came at Arkansas State in 2012, where he achieved a 9-3 record. He later took the helm at Auburn from 2013 to 2020, finishing with a 63-31 record and leading the team to the BCS National Championship Game in 2013.

After a stint at UCF from 2021 to 2024, where he posted a 28-24 record and made two bowl appearances, Gillispie joined Tarleton State in March 2020. His ability to turn around programs has been a hallmark of his career, but the recent allegations cast a shadow over his coaching legacy.

Historical Context of Coaching Allegations

The scrutiny surrounding Gillispie is part of a broader conversation about player treatment and accountability in college sports. Over the years, numerous coaches have faced allegations of mistreatment, leading to increased calls for transparency and reform within athletic programs. The NCAA has been under pressure to address these issues, particularly as more former players come forward with their experiences.

The landscape of college athletics has evolved, with a growing emphasis on player welfare and mental health. Institutions are now more vigilant in addressing complaints and ensuring that athletes are treated with respect and dignity. This shift reflects a changing culture in sports, where the well-being of players is increasingly prioritized.

Conclusion

As the investigation into Billy Gillispie’s conduct unfolds, the college basketball community watches closely. His past controversies and the current allegations raise important questions about coaching practices and player treatment in collegiate sports. With Glynn Cyprien stepping in as acting head coach, the Tarleton State Texans will continue their season amid uncertainty. The outcome of this investigation could have lasting implications for Gillispie’s career and the broader conversation about accountability in college athletics.