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  • 🐾 Panther’s Toothsayer: North Carolina A&T Aggies

    📍 History Between the Programs

    High Point and North Carolina A&T may be neighbors, separated by just 18 miles, but they’ve rarely crossed paths. The Panthers are 4–1 all-time against the Aggies and have won the last three meetings in this US-29 Derby. 

    After more than 15 years without a matchup, the rivalry reignited in 2021–22 when A&T joined the Big South for a cup of coffee before moving on to the CAA. While this game won’t count towards the official record I think we can all agree that the winner gets to claim Wet N Wild Emerald Pointe (located almost dead center between these campuses).

    🔍 Overview

    The Aggies enter the 2025–26 season looking to shake off a brutal stretch that’s seen back-to-back 7–25 campaigns and a pair of last-place finishes in the Coastal Athletic Association. Head coach Monté Ross is now in year three of a complete rebuild, hoping a revamped roster and newfound size will finally bring progress in Greensboro.

    Last season was defined by adversity — injuries, midseason dismissals, and depth issues forced A&T to finish the year with a six-man rotation. But despite that, the Aggies never folded. Ross called this offseason a “reset,” emphasizing toughness, character, and size in his recruiting. For the first time in years, the Aggies have real frontcourt depth and positional balance.

    ⚙️ Team Identity: Reset, Rebuild, and Reinforce

    Ross’ 2025–26 squad looks far different — bigger, deeper, and more disciplined. His priority this offseason was defense and interior presence. The Aggies finished last year 334th in offensive efficiency and 345th in shooting percentage, often settling for bad shots without the size to rebound misses.

    Now, the emphasis is on establishing an identity built on accountability, rebounding, and defensive energy. Expect A&T to play with pace but rely on effort and physicality more than pure skill. They project as one of the nation’s youngest teams, but Ross insists this group has “a real competitive edge” — something missing from previous versions of the Aggies.

    🧩 Key Returners

    Bryson Ogletree (Jr., 6’4″) – The heart of this team. Reliable, tough, and consistent. Averaged 7.3 PPG and 3.7 RPG last year, and his work ethic has made him the vocal leader of the program.
    Efstratios Kalliontzis (So., 6’11”) – Showed flashes as a freshman, hitting 56% from the field while logging heavy minutes. Brings length and a steady interior presence.
    Will Felton (Sr., 6’8″) – Former Arizona State forward who’s battled injuries. When healthy, he’s a force — physical, strong, and efficient near the rim.
    Jalal McKie (Jr., 6’5″) – Wing defender and energy guy who contributes across the board. Needs to improve his outside shooting to stay in the mix.
    Uchenna Kellman-Nicholes (So., 6’5″) – Missed last year with injury but brings defensive versatility and effort.

    🧠 New Faces to Know

    Trent Middleton Jr. (Jr., 6’3″) – Transfer from Delaware who will run the show. Veteran guard with strong instincts, defensive grit, and the ability to control pace.
    Lureon Walker (Sr., 6’5″) – A Division II standout from Mount Olive (a school High Point fans and Dr. Qubein know very well) who averaged 17.5 PPG. Athletic wing who can finish at the rim and stretch the floor.
    Lewis Walker (Fr., 6’6″) – Former UMass signee with a smooth midrange game and potential to contribute early.
    KJ Debrick (Sr., 6’9″) – Cleveland State transfer and physical big who provides scoring punch and toughness inside. Ross calls him “the best inside guy we’ve had here.”
    Amadou Doumbia (So., 6’11”) – UMass transfer with elite shot-blocking instincts. Should finally give the Aggies a real rim protector.
    Zamoku Weluche-Ume (So., 6’8″) – Former George Washington forward. Long, athletic, and versatile — can guard multiple positions and finish above the rim.

    📊 By the Numbers

    CategoryStatRank
    Offensive Efficiency95.8337th
    Defensive Efficiency111.2339th
    Adjusted Tempo72.375th
    Projected Record8–2113th in CAA
    Returning Starters1 of 5—
    Effective FG% (2024–25)45.0%345th
    Points per Game69.212th in CAA

    🧩 Coaching Breakdown: Monté Ross (3rd Year)

    Ross — a seasoned coach with roots at Delaware, Temple, and Saint Joseph’s — is trying to bring credibility back to Aggie basketball. Known for his structure and patience, Ross has weathered two chaotic seasons and enters Year 3 with his most complete roster yet.

    He’s surrounded by a veteran staff featuring Jeff Rafferty, Dorian Long, and Ricky Moore — a UConn national champion who adds defensive pedigree. Their focus: build a foundation, defend the paint, and finally establish a consistent identity.

    🏀 Matchup Outlook vs. High Point

    The second North Carolina-based CAA opponent in as many weeks — but on the opposite end of the spectrum in terms of projected finish. Whereas UNCW came in second and narrowly missed the preseason favorite tag, the Aggies were picked 13th (out of 13) in the Colonial.

    High Point and North Carolina A&T may only be separated by 18 miles, but the gap between their programs right now is far wider. The Aggies are 14-50 over the last two years, while the Panthers have gone 56-15, one of the best records in all of college basketball.

    The Aggies will test HPU’s front and backcourt with legit size — especially Debrick, Doumbia, and Felton — but the Panthers’ speed and spacing should present serious problems for an A&T defense still learning to communicate.

    Expect Monté Ross to slow the tempo, crash the boards, and grind possessions, while High Point tries to impose its pace and perimeter rhythm. If the Panthers can control the glass and stay disciplined defensively, they should be able to pull away in the second half.

    One thing to really keep an eye on will be how HPU’s guards hold up on the defensive end. Rob Martin and Conrad Martinez both showed out versus Wilmington, but the Aggies’ length across all positions will be another test. Coach Clayman and his crew have preached team defense throughout the offseason, and this will be a nice physical barometer for the group.

    High Point looks to continue its trend as one of the nation’s most explosive offenses. Ross and A&T will likely try to drag that attack into the mud — slowing tempo and limiting transition looks. Can the Panthers survive and thrive through that adversity when things get uncomfortable? Saturday’s matinee could provide an answer.

    🔮 Toothsayer’s Take

    This one feels like a clash of two programs with completely different starting points. High Point is building off its best two-year run and showcasing themselves as a powerhouse in the Mid-Major ranks while A&T is still finding its footing after years of instability.

    Monté Ross’ new roster has length and character, but not the same talent level as what Coach Flynn can send out. The Aggies will fight, but High Point’s shooting, tempo, guard play, and overall talent should prove decisive.

    This should serve as a valuable tune-up before the season begins in earnest. A&T is a solid second exhibition opponent: no player under 6-4, mirroring the size and physicality the Panthers will see from Furman, whose shortest rotation player is 6-4.

    Ross’ teams have shown resilience, and this year’s Aggies finally have the size and depth they’ve lacked. They may muck things up early and keep it close in a choppy grind-it-out first half but unlike the battle down in Wilmington, I expect High Point to build a substantial second-half lead and open the bench late.

    Prediction: High Point 87, North Carolina A&T 53

  • Panther’s Toothsayer: UNC Wilmington Seahawks

    🔍 Overview

    The reigning CAA Tournament Champions, UNC Wilmington enters 2025–26 fresh off its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2017. Head coach Takayo Siddle, now in his sixth season, has built a culture centered on relentless tempo, discipline, and unselfish play. His 106–47 record (.693) and 2022 CAA Coach of the Year honor underline one of the most consistent programs in the mid-major landscape.

    Last season, the Seahawks went 27–8 (14–4 CAA) and ranked first in the league in points per game (79.2), field goal percentage (47%), and rebounding margin (+7.1) — all trademarks of Siddle’s attack-minded system.

    ⚙️ Team Identity: Fast, Fearless, and Fluid

    Siddle’s Seahawks are known for their up-tempo offense and inside-out philosophy. They ranked among the top 25 nationally in offensive efficiency and top 20 in offensive rebounding rate, thriving on second-chance points and rim attacks.

    UNCW doesn’t rely on one star — instead, they share the ball at an elite rate (15.2 assists per game) while keeping turnovers low (10.4 per game).

    Defensively, the Seahawks apply constant pressure, using length and athleticism to disrupt passing lanes. Expect a switch-heavy scheme anchored by Christian May and Madison Durr, two of their best on-ball defenders.

    🧩 Key Returners

    Noah Ross (Sr., 6’7″) – Top returning scorer (8.1 PPG, 5.1 RPG). Stretch forward with touch, rebounding, and toughness. Named to the 2025 CAA All-Tournament Team.
    Nolan Hodge (Sr., 6’7″) – Versatile wing who can score at all three levels. Dropped a team-high 18 points in UNCW’s NCAA Tournament game vs. Texas Tech.
    Greedy Williams (Sr., 6’5″) – Vocal leader and two-way threat. Brings energy, defensive presence, and experience.
    Makoi Mabor Makoi (So., 6’11”) – Developing rim protector who adds length and rebounding off the bench.

    🧠 New Faces to Know

    CJ Luster II (Sr., 6’3″) – The headline transfer from Stony Brook (16.8 PPG, 42% from deep). A smooth scorer and preseason All-CAA First Team pick.
    Patrick Wessler (R-Jr., 7’0″) – Former Virginia Tech big man and Charlotte native. True seven-footer with a 250-pound frame — will test HPU’s new-look frontcourt.
    Jahnathan Lamothe (Jr., 6’4″) – Ex-Maryland guard who brings defensive toughness and backcourt depth.
    Christian May (Sr., 6’5″) – Towson transfer with defensive bite and driving ability.
    Madison Durr (Sr., 6’5″) – Monmouth transfer praised as one of the most consistent performers in preseason workouts.

    📊 By the Numbers

    CategoryStatRank
    Points per Game79.21st in CAA
    FG%47.0%1st in CAA
    2P%53.7%Top 100
    Offensive Efficiency116.2Top 25
    Offensive Rebounding %34.4%Top 20
    Free Throw %75.0%3rd in CAA
    Assists per Game15.2Top 75
    Turnovers per Game10.4Top 50
    Rebounding Margin+7.12nd in CAA

    🧩 Coaching Breakdown: Takayo Siddle (6th Year)

    A former Kevin Keatts protege, Siddle has implemented a modernized “Keatts-style” system at UNCW — fast, positionless, and built on effort. His teams consistently rank among the CAA’s most efficient on both ends, and his recruiting strategy emphasizes experienced, multi-positional transfers who fit his demanding style.

    Under Siddle:

    • CAA Tournament Champion (2025)
    • CAA Regular Season Champion (2022)
    • CBI Champion (2022)
    • Career Record: 106–47 (.693)

    🗣 Practice Intel

    Reports out of Wilmington highlight Noah Ross, Nolan Hodge, and CJ Luster as the most consistent performers this preseason. Christian May and Madison Durr have earned praise for their defensive intensity.

    Meanwhile, Patrick Wessler has been labeled the “Biggest Surprise” of camp — a huge seven-footer who adds interior scoring and rim protection. Wessler garnered multiple high-major offers out of high school before ending up in the ACC at Virginia Tech. 

    During a recent practice visit, Jon Rothstein described Luster as “sensational” and pegged the Luster–Williams backcourt as one of the best in the mid-majors.

    🏀 Matchup Outlook vs. High Point

    For High Point, the key will be limiting UNCW’s paint touches and second-chance points. The Seahawks thrive when dictating tempo — they love to push after defensive rebounds and wear teams down with rim pressure.

    HPU’s deep backcourt will be tested early against a veteran unit featuring five senior guards 6’3″ or taller. Containing Wessler inside and forcing contested jump shots could tilt momentum. The 7-footer’s size against the Panthers’ new look front court sans Juslin Bodo Bodo will definitely be interesting. Him against Aquino in particular will be a must watch matchup. 

    If the Panthers can control tempo, limit turnovers, and match UNCW’s rebounding effort, they’ll have a real chance to neutralize the defending champs’ rhythm and make an early statement.

    🔮 Projection

    UNCW projects as a Top 120 team nationally and clear CAA title favorite, with a projected 22–9 overall record. The Seahawks’ experienced backcourt and improved front line make them a dangerous out for anyone.

    For High Point, this matchup is the perfect litmus test before Furman and later Radford — programs built on similar athleticism and tempo. Facing Patrick Wessler’s size and CJ Luster’s scoring will prepare HPU for its Big South slate, including showdowns with Preseason Player of the Year Toyaz Solomon of Asheville and Radford’s lauded new backcourt.

    This will be a high-level physical battle between two mid-major behemoths in the Old North State. Ultimately, I think the continuity of Wilmington’s returning players and coach along with homecourt advantage wins out in a game that won’t count towards the standings but will make each team better before the regular season tips off and will give this new iteration of the Panthers a great measuring stick before a tough season-opener against Furman down in Rock Hill.


    Prediction: UNCW 72, HPU 63

  • 2025–26 High Point Panthers Season Preview: Reloaded and Ready to Roar

    High Point Panthers basketball is back and aiming even higher after a record-breaking 29-win season and the program’s first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance. With Flynn Clayman now promoted to head coach, a new era kicks off in 2025–26. Known for orchestrating one of the nation’s most explosive offenses last season, Clayman wasted no time retooling the roster after 10 players moved on through graduation or the transfer portal.

    Despite the turnover, the Panthers are built to contend again. Clayman has blended veteran transfers, talented youngsters, and key returners into a squad that’s ready to continue to dominate in the Big South and make waves nationally. Here’s your comprehensive breakdown of the upcoming season:

    A New Era: Clayman’s Offense and Vision

    Clayman’s fingerprints were all over High Point’s success last year, crafting a top-three nationally ranked offense. Expect more of the same—fast-paced, heavy on ball movement, and lethal from beyond the arc. His deep recruiting connections have stocked the roster with versatile, athletic players who fit his system.

    After former head coach Alan Huss departed, Clayman doubled down on building a roster that’s ready to win now. No rebuilding here—just a reload with serious firepower.

    Key Returners Add Stability

    • Terry Anderson (6’6” G/F): A versatile senior with the ability to defend multiple positions while providing leadership and energy.. Last year, he averaged 4.5 points and 2.8 rebounds but it came off the heels of a late offseason injury. Prior to that injury those in the know were touting Anderson as one of if not THE best player on the roster. I think it’s safe to say if Terry can stay healthy all year he’s in for a huge season.
    • Chase Johnston (6’3” G): One of the nation’s top shooters, Johnston hit nearly 39% from three last year. His clutch shooting and nearly 1,500 career points make him a steadying force for a team with a lot of turnover. Johnston punishes any team that takes a possession off or leaves him any room to get his shot off.
    • Wild Cards: There’s buzz about Bobby Pettiford, Laye Thiam, and D’Maurian Williams seeking extra years of eligibility. All three played pivotal roles in last year’s success, but their return hinges on eligibility approvals and roster space under the new 15-player scholarship cap.

    Sophomores Set to Shine

    • Josh Ibukunoluwa (6’10” F): A breakout candidate, Ibukunoluwa showcased flashes of defensive brilliance and versatility last season. With his size and mobility, he could anchor the frontcourt and emerge as a key rim protector. Heard from those close to the team that believe JI could be an all time HPU great when it’s all said and done. That’s this young man’s potential.
    • Braden Hausen (6’7” G/F): A sharpshooting wing, Hausen connected on 50% of his threes in limited action. His combination of length and shooting makes him a potential X-factor, especially in Clayman’s space-and-pace offense. I expect a big jump from the highly touted recruit from Texas.

    New Faces: Transfers Ready to Make Noise

    Clayman hit the portal hard, bringing in a standout group of eight experienced newcomers:

    • Rob Martin (5’10” PG, Southeast Missouri State): An electric point guard who averaged 14.8 points and shot over 41% from three. Martin was SEMU’s leading scorer and passer en route to an All-Conference season in the OVC. He’ll likely be the primary floor general, bringing tempo and shot-making. He’s a walking bucket that will remind Big South fans of Asheville’s Jordan Marsh. 
    • Jaydon Young (6’4” G, Virginia Tech): An explosive scorer with ACC pedigree. Young finished last season on a tear and could step in as HPU’s go-to offensive weapon. I believe the Triad native is best suited to step into the void that D’maurian leaves. 
    • Cam’Ron Fletcher (6’7” G/F, Xavier): A former top-40 national recruit, Fletcher brings elite athleticism and defensive versatility. If healthy, he’s a mismatch waiting to happen on both ends.
    • Scotty Washington (6’4” G, Cal State Northridge): Averaged nearly 15 points last season and adds veteran shooting and scoring depth to the backcourt. Washington can score from absolutely anywhere on the court and will force teams to cover every inch of the court. Him and Martin’s midrange game will really open things up for the team’s sharp shooters from deep.
    • Conrad Martinez (6’0” PG, Arizona): A crafty playmaker from Spain, Martinez brings international flair and a knockdown jumper. In FIBA U18 competition, he averaged 10.5 points and 4.2 assists, showcasing his vision and scoring touch against top younger players across the globe.
    • Youssouf Singare (6’10” C, UConn): A defensive anchor with elite length and shot-blocking skills. While playing limited minutes at UConn, he learned what it takes to compete at the highest level. He was a highly touted recruit for Dan Hurley and a player the program and fans loved. 
    • Owen Aquino (6’9” F/C, Liberty): A mobile big with rebounding and rim-running ability. Aquino averaged 8.6 points and 5.5 rebounds last year, adding depth and versatility to the frontcourt. His unique size and strength is something the team didn’t have last year. 
    • Vincent Brady II (6’4” G, Missouri State): A scoring guard who put up 13.5 points per game last season. He brings an attacking mindset and experience to HPU’s wing rotation. The Panthers got an up close and personal look at Brady’s game when he torched HPU in the Cayman Islands to the tune of 27 points. 

    Freshmen to Watch

    • Abu Yarmah (6’7” SF): A high-motor forward from the Overtime Elite league, Yarmah is ready to make an impact with his rebounding, defense, and athleticism. His versatility makes him a perfect fit for Clayman’s up-tempo system.
    • Caden Miller (6’10” C): A shot-blocker and rebounder from Kentucky, Miller could see early minutes alongside Ibukunoluwa. His size and instincts will be crucial against bigger Big South opponents.

    Roster Outlook and Rotation

    Expect a dynamic lineup built around guard play and spacing. Martin and Martinez bring a perfect blend of scoring and playmaking at point guard. Martin excels in the mid-range, while Martinez is a deep shooter and skilled facilitator.

    On the wings, Young, Washington, Fletcher, Anderson, Hausen, and Brady II offer a blend of size, athleticism, and shooting—rare for a mid-major. This group can stretch defenses, slash to the rim, and lock down opponents on the perimeter.

    In the frontcourt, Singare, Ibukunoluwa, Miller, and Aquino bring length, defense, and rebounding. Singare and Ibukunoluwa’s rim protection will be key, while Miller and Aquino provide valuable depth.

    This roster is built to run, defend, and shoot—the hallmarks of Clayman’s style.

    Big South Outlook

    High Point enters the season as a top contender in the Big South. With their offensive firepower, athleticism, and depth, they have the tools to make another title run. As it stands, Radford, UNC Asheville, and Winthrop figure to be the biggest threats, but HPU’s ceiling should be the highest if chemistry develops quickly and the team stays healthy. 

    Bottom Line

    The 2025–26 High Point Panthers are reloaded and ready to roar. Under Coach Clayman’s leadership, they’ve assembled a roster that blends experience, talent, and athleticism in a way that few mid-majors can match. With the Qubein Center rocking, expect another exciting season filled with high-scoring games, breakout stars, and a shot at returning to March Madness.

  • Clayman Takes the Wheel: The Huss Bus May Be Gone, But We’re Still Rolling

    Well, it’s official. The search is over, and as predicted High Point didn’t have to look very far or take very long. The Panthers have officially named Flynn Clayman as the 15th head coach in program history—and if you’ve been paying attention, this hire just makes sense.

    I can say with certainty that this wasn’t a hire made out of desperation or driven by a ticking clock. At least five well-respected coaches from across the college basketball landscape engaged with the search committee—but none made a strong enough case to pull the decision-makers away from their top internal option. Sources close to the program have said HPU anticipated a possible change for some time, and Clayman was always seen as a serious contender. He fully participated in the interview process and impressed with a clear vision, deep passion, and a plan that aligned perfectly with the university’s values. It didn’t take long for the braintrust to realize they could end the search—they had their guy.

    Clayman has been the architect behind High Point’s explosive offense over the last two seasons. As Associate Head Coach and offensive coordinator, he helped transform the Panthers into one of the most efficient scoring machines in the country—ranking 3rd nationally in KenPom offensive efficiency, ahead of blue bloods like Kansas and even this year’s national champion, Florida. His fingerprints were all over an offense that led the Big South in back-to-back seasons and helped rack up a 56–15 record, two regular-season titles, and HPU’s first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance.

    This wasn’t just a good offense by High Point standards. It was nationally elite.

    But beyond the X’s and O’s, Clayman has been a force on the recruiting trail. His ties span both domestic and international pipelines—Australia, the WAC, the AAU scene—you name it. Before arriving in High Point, he was already turning heads at Southern Utah, where he helped guide the Thunderbirds to 24+ wins, a CBI run, and the program’s best NET/KenPom rankings ever. He even took over as interim head coach and went 2-1 in the postseason.

    At High Point, his recruiting and development track record has only grown stronger. He’s been key in bringing in high-level talent, mentoring First Team all-conference players, and building the kind of culture that doesn’t just win games—it sustains success.

    Here’s what President Qubein had to say about the hire:

    “Flynn Clayman has played a pivotal role in HPU’s recruiting and offensive success during the past two seasons. Players appreciate his leadership, and his values align with the values of our university.”

    Athletic Director Dan Hauser echoed that:

    “Flynn has been instrumental in creating one of the top five nationally ranked offenses in the country. His connections within the domestic and international recruiting space are outstanding. The championship success of High Point University basketball is here to stay under head coach Flynn Clayman.”

    Clayman himself added:

    “I am unbelievably honored to have the opportunity to continue to lead this program in the right direction”

    From a program perspective, this is the perfect blend of continuity and ambition. Clayman isn’t here to hit reset—he’s here to keep pushing forward. The Panthers posted back-to-back 20+ win seasons, held a 31–3 record at the Qubein Center, and just finished 29–6 overall, tying the Big South record for most wins in a single season. They cracked the Mid-Major Top 25 and stayed there for 34 straight weeks, peaking at No. 5 and even receiving AP Top 25 votes.

    They’ve also gotten off to a strong start in building next year’s roster—and the future looks just as bright. Key contributors from last season’s record-breaking squad are returning, along with exciting young talents like Josh Ibukunoluwa and Brendan Hausen. Clayman played a major role in landing four new transfer additions, all expected to bolster the Panthers’ title defense, as well as high school standouts Abu Yarmah and Caden Miller. Several of these players have already taken to social media to publicly voice their support for Coach Clayman, signaling a locker room that’s fully bought in.

    There’s no need to rebuild what’s already working. Clayman gets it, he’s helped build and he’s already proven it. Now he’s just officially the guy steering the ship.

    So buckle up, Panther fans. The Huss Bus may be in the rearview—but with Coach Clayman at the wheel, this ride is far from over.

  • Huss Leaves but the Momentum Continues

    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?

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Sometimes the hardest part of finding success is gathering the courage to get started. The most successful people don’t look back to see who’s watching. Look for opportunities to lift others up along the way.

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