Tennessee Tech Names Tobin Anderson New Basketball Coach

Tennessee Tech University has appointed Tobin Anderson as their new men's basketball head coach. Anderson, who previously led Fairleigh Dickinson to a major NCAA Tournament upset, takes over after John Pelphrey was dismissed following seven seasons.

Tennessee Tech University announced Saturday that Tobin Anderson will take the helm as the new men’s basketball head coach.

The 54-year-old Anderson most recently worked as special assistant to head coach Bryan Hodgson at South Florida during the past season. Anderson gained national attention when he guided 16th-seeded Fairleigh Dickinson to a stunning upset over top-seeded Purdue in the 2023 NCAA Tournament, and later took over the coaching position at Iona following Rick Pitino’s departure.

Tennessee Tech athletic director Casey Fox praised the hiring decision, stating: “Tobin Anderson has a proven track record of building successful programs, developing student-athletes, and leading teams to championships. His winning experience and passion for the game make him an outstanding fit to lead our men’s basketball program. We are excited to welcome Coach Anderson and his family to Tennessee Tech.”

Anderson steps into the role previously held by John Pelphrey, who was dismissed on March 3 following seven years at the helm. Pelphrey compiled a 79-138 record during his tenure with the Golden Eagles.

The new coach expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity, saying: “I am incredibly honored to be named the head coach at Tennessee Tech. This is a program with a proud tradition and passionate supporters. My family and I are excited to join the Cookeville community and begin building a program that Golden Eagle fans will be proud of.”

Tennessee Tech completed the recent season with a 13-18 overall record and an 8-12 mark in conference play. The team failed to earn a spot in the Ohio Valley Conference tournament.