It’s been a while since our last post—but it’s time to get back in the game.
In October 2023, this site called High Point a sleeping giant among mid-majors. Since then, there’s no doubt: the giant has awoken.
Alan Huss came to HPU with a vision of taking the program to new heights, and there’s no question he delivered. During his tenure, the Panthers went 56–15, captured two Big South regular season titles, reached the finals of the CBI, and—most importantly—won the Big South Tournament in Johnson City, TN, punching the program’s first-ever ticket to the Big Dance. Once there, High Point gave Purdue everything they could handle, putting the school and its fanbase on display for a national audience.
I didn’t write during that incredible run—I was too busy enjoying the ride on the Huss Bus. But with yesterday’s announcement, it’s time to put fingers back to keyboard.
First off, I want to express my appreciation for Coach Huss’s time at HPU. He brought our men’s basketball team to the NCAA Tournament for the first time ever and had the best start to a coaching career in Big South history. He showed what’s possible at High Point when the right pieces are in place.
But—and this is key—the program isn’t just Alan Huss.
Men’s basketball was the last frontier for HPU Athletics. Nearly every other team at High Point has already reached major milestones and holds a firm grip on Big South dominance. What Huss accomplished proved what’s possible, but I believe it was just the beginning. The floor—not the ceiling.
His return to Creighton was always a real possibility. And while the timing and nature of his departure could’ve been smoother, the writing has been on the wall for about a month. That’s why I’ve been dialed in—tracking the coaching rumor mill and getting a sense of how this job is perceived nationally.
I can say with confidence: this is a top-tier opportunity for a LOT of coaches. It’s a highly desirable role. Athletic Director Dan Hauser, President Dr. Qubein, and the rest of HPU’s leadership team will have no shortage of strong candidates. Here are a few names that have surfaced most often:
Flynn Clayman
Had to list this name first (the rest will be alphabetical), because I believe he’s the benchmark by which all other candidates will be measured. Clayman has spent the last two seasons on staff at HPU and is widely credited for the Panthers’ offensive schemes and recruiting success. Before coming to High Point, he spent six years at Southern Utah University, working his way up from Special Assistant to Associate Head Coach. He even served as Interim Head Coach during the 2022–23 season, leading SUU to a 2–1 record in the CBI. Under his guidance, SUU posted four straight winning seasons—their first such run in D-I history. His familiarity with the current roster, committed recruits, and the fact that his wife coaches on the women’s team make him a very strong internal candidate to take the reins.
Matt Brady
Another internal possibility, Brady joined the program last season and brings over 35 years of coaching experience—including 12 as a head coach. He led Marist to its first postseason win in program history and later guided James Madison to a CAA title and NCAA Tournament appearance in 2013, earning the Dukes their first tourney win in over 30 years. Known for player development and recruiting, Brady has already become a respected voice on staff and a favorite among players in the locker room.
Tom Crean
The former head coach at Marquette, Indiana, and Georgia, Crean offers big-name recognition and a Final Four appearance on his résumé. He’s a proven program builder and elite recruiter, though his recent tenures have had mixed results. If High Point wants to make a national splash and continue rising fast, Crean would bring instant credibility and a high-major mentality to the role. Retreads can be risky, especially in the mid-major ranks, but Crean is likely hungry after being out of coaching for last couple of years.
Justin Gainey
Currently the Associate Head Coach at Tennessee under Rick Barnes, Gainey is a strong recruiter with deep ties to North Carolina—he grew up in the Triad and starred at NC State. He’s helped build one of the SEC’s most consistent programs and is respected throughout the industry for his development skills and steady presence. His local roots and winning pedigree make him a natural fit if HPU wants someone who understands the region and the potential.
Gregg Marshall
Best known for building Wichita State into a national force—highlighted by a Final Four run in 2013—Marshall also dominated the Big South while at Winthrop. His career record is among the best of any available coach, though his controversial exit from Wichita raises obvious concerns. If HPU is willing to take the risk, his ability to build a tough, winning team is unmatched and could fast-track the program’s rise.
Korey McCray
Fresh off a national championship, McCray has logged stints at Florida, UCLA, and Mississippi State, and has a reputation as one of the best recruiters in the country—particularly in the Southeast and AAU circuits. He’s known for connecting with players and building talent pipelines. If HPU wants to lean into high-upside athletes and aggressive recruiting, McCray checks every box.
Wes Miller
The current head coach at Cincinnati, Miller built UNC Greensboro into a perennial Southern Conference power before making the jump to the Big 12. A North Carolina native and former coach at HPU with deep roots in the region, Miller is known for his culture-building, discipline, and consistent success. While he may be a stretch given his current post, HPU could be an appealing landing spot if Miller believes his time with the Bearcats is running out. I have heard HPU is at least looking at poaching a current P5 head coach and Miller fits the bill.
Luke Murray
Currently an assistant at UConn, Murray has played a critical role in the Huskies’ back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024. Known for his offensive acumen and recruiting prowess, he’s worked under Dan Hurley at UConn and held previous roles at Louisville, Xavier, Rhode Island, and Wagner. Named one of the top recruiters in the country by 247Sports and ESPN, Murray is a cerebral and energetic option who could bring a championship mindset to High Point. Important to note that Murray was a top option the last time the Panthers were in the coaching search cycle and Murray turned them down. Would he sing a different tune with HPU’s recent run of success?
Pantherstooth 
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