Head Coach, Men’s Basketball – T.K. Smith

tsmith@ecollege.edu

T.K. Smith enters his first season as Head Coach at Ecclesia College in 2013.  At age 24, Smith will begin the 2013-2014 season as the youngest head coach in college basketball (NCAA: 25 years, others unreported).  Smith comes to Ecclesia College after serving as Director of Basketball Operations at University of Central Arkansas for the 2012-2013 season. Smith is no stranger to Ecclesia College though.  Having served as Assistant Coach and Assistant Athletic Director for the 2011-2012 season, Ecclesia College is well aware of the hard work, enthusiasm, and leadership capabilities Smith has to offer not just to the basketball program, but to the college as a whole.

“I am extremely appreciative to Ecclesia College President, Oren Paris and Athletic Director, Dean Skinner for the opportunity to lead the Men’s Basketball program. This position is a dream come true because it is an opportunity to be part of something much bigger than myself, and much bigger than a game…the game eventually comes to an end for all of us, but we have our Faith for eternity.”

Smith comes to Ecclesia College after serving as the Director of Basketball Operations at his alma mater, University of Central Arkansas (NCAA Division 1) for the 2012-2013 season.  While at Central Arkansas, Smith worked under former University of Arkansas basketball star, and member of the 1994 NCAA Championship team, Corliss Williamson.  While Smith was on staff, Central Arkansas had their most Division 1 wins since joining the Southland Conference, made their first trip to the Southland Conference Tournament, and produced two All-Conference selections and one Honorable Mention selection.

Smith also played collegiately under Williamson while at University of Central Arkansas.  He began his career as a recruited walk-on before earning a scholarship during his sophomore season.  Smith received his BS in Health and Behavioral Sciences from University of Central Arkansas in 2011 and will complete his MBA at University of Central Arkansas in 2013.

University of Central Arkansas’ Coach Corliss Williamson on Smith being hired:

"I am very excited that Coach Smith will have this opportunity to lead Ecclesia's men's     basketball program. He is very knowledgeable of the game. He is a competitor. With his organizational skills and attention to detail, the Royals will be in good hands. I trust that he will be very successful."