STEPHENVILLE, Texas – Tarleton State University has launched a national search for its next head men's basketball coach.
 
"I can confirm that Coach (Billy) Gillispie will not return next season. I wish him well and thank him for his leadership over the last six seasons," said Steve Uryasz, Vice President and Director of Athletics. "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," added Uryasz. "I am confident that we will identify and land a championship-caliber coach to continue our incredible momentum."
 
Gillispie spent six years as the head coach of the Texans, bringing the program into its NCAA Division I era. Despite two extended periods of medical absence, the Texans earned 92 wins over that span to date.
 
"On behalf of Texan Nation, I want to thank head coach Billy Gillispie for his efforts in building upon the storied history of Tarleton State basketball," said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. "Coach Gillispie helped usher us into NCAA Division I competition and celebrated some incredible wins during his tenure. We wish him the very best moving forward."
 
Tarleton State has partnered with CSA Search & Consulting on the national search.