Gardner-Webb Head Men's Basketball Coach Tim Craft has accepted the head coaching job at Western Carolina University, leading to a search for a new coach at Gardner-Webb. Associate Head Coach Jeremy Luther will serve as interim head coach.

The Big Picture

Tim Craft's departure marks the end of an era at Gardner-Webb University, with his significant contributions to the basketball program over 11 seasons.

By the Numbers
  • Tim Craft won 188 games during his tenure at Gardner-Webb over 11 seasons.
  • Craft led the program to its first NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament appearance in 2018-2019.
  • During his time at GWU, Craft secured six wins over Power 5 schools.
  • Craft became the fourth head coach in Big South Conference history to win at least 15 games in each of his first four seasons.
  • Under Craft, Gardner-Webb achieved a record of 17-16 in the 2023-'24 season, with an 11-5 record in Big South Conference play.
State of Play
  • A national search is underway for Gardner-Webb University's next head basketball coach.
  • Associate Head Coach Jeremy Luther will take on the role of interim head coach.
  • Craft's impact on players and fans during his time at GWU has been significant.
  • Gardner-Webb ended the 2023-'24 season with a record of 17-16, with 11 conference wins.
  • The university expresses gratitude and well wishes for Craft's future endeavors at Western Carolina University.
What's Next

Gardner-Webb University continues its search for a new head basketball coach to lead the program following Tim Craft's departure to Western Carolina University.

Bottom Line

Tim Craft's departure from Gardner-Webb University after 11 successful seasons marks the end of a remarkable coaching era, leaving a legacy of achievements and memories. The university now faces the task of finding a new leader to build on Craft's accomplishments and guide the basketball program into the future.