Tennessee State University (TSU) head men’s basketball coach Brian ‘Penny’ Collins has officially resigned to accept an assistant coaching position with the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies, the university announced on June 30. His departure marks the end of a transformative seven-year tenure that saw the Tigers return to competitive prominence in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC).
Assistant Coach Erik Buggs will serve as interim head coach while TSU conducts a national search for Collins’ permanent replacement.
“On behalf of Tennessee State University, I wish Coach Collins and his family the very best as they begin this exciting new chapter,” said TSU Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen. “We are proud to congratulate Coach Collins on this significant opportunity, which reflects the meaningful work he has done here over the past seven years.”
Collins, a Nashville native and former standout at Whites Creek High School and Belmont University, was hired on March 26, 2018, becoming the 18th head coach in TSU men’s basketball history. Over his seven seasons, he compiled a 98-120 record, including four seasons with at least 17 wins. He led the Tigers to winning records in each of the past three seasons and an appearance in the 2024-25 OVC Tournament semifinals after a 17-16 overall campaign.
His most notable achievement came during the 2023-24 season, when he became the first TSU coach in the Division I era to record three 18-win seasons.
Beyond the wins, Collins is credited with restoring the program’s culture and credibility. “Coach Collins built a family-oriented culture and a competitive program that earned the respect of our conference and the broader basketball community,” Allen said. “His passion and unwavering commitment to developing young men and providing a first-class experience have been truly invaluable.”
TSU Interim President Dr. Dwayne Tucker also praised Collins’ impact. “He has played a key role in bringing our men’s basketball program back to a competitive standing in the OVC. I extend my sincere gratitude to Coach Collins for his leadership and for guiding our student-athletes with integrity and purpose.”
Stepping in as interim head coach, Erik Buggs joined TSU last season after three years at UT Martin, where he helped guide the Skyhawks to a 24-win season and a regular season OVC title in 2022–23. Buggs is expected to maintain continuity as the university begins its search for a new permanent head coach.
As Collins begins his next chapter on the professional stage with the Memphis Grizzlies, TSU looks to build on the strong foundation he helped establish and continue its upward trajectory in collegiate basketball.
