Brian “Penny” Collins, the former head coach of the Tennessee State University. Tigers men’s basketball program, has resigned from his role to accept a coaching position in the NBA, a major milestone for HBCU basketball coaching careers.
A Transformative Run at Tennessee State
Collins led the Tigers for seven seasons, building a winning culture and restoring the program’s competitiveness in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC). His TSU teams posted multiple 18‑win seasons, including a 17‑13 overall record in 2023‑24, and reached the OVC Tournament semifinals. More broadly, Collins finished his tenure with a 117‑103 record and two regular-season OVC titles
Off the court, Collins was praised for building a family-first environment focused on academic success and personal development. His players excelled in graduation rates, while TSU hosted the first HBCU Pro Day and frequently drew NBA scouts to Nashville.
NBA Role and What It Signals
On June 30, 2025, Tennessee State announced Collins’s departure to join the NBA ranks. Reports indicate he will serve in a player development role—believed to be with the Memphis Grizzlies, under a former teammate, signaling a direct professional staff path from HBCU to the NBA.
This transition marks an important shift: a high-performing HBCU coach accepted at the NBA level. It reflects growing recognition of coaching talent developed within these programs.
Institutional Response & Transition
Upon Collins’s resignation, Assistant Coach Erik Buggs was appointed interim head coach. Buggs previously served at UT Martin and was credited with helping lead the Skyhawks to a 24‑win season and an OVC regular season title in 2022‑23.
Tennessee State’s athletic leadership acknowledged Collins’s impact:
“Coach Collins built a family‑oriented culture and a competitive program that earned respect,” said TSU’s Director of Athletics, noting the university is proud to see him advance to the NBA level
Broader Meaning for HBCU Coaching Pathways
Collins’s departure underscores the evolving recognition of HBCU coaches at the national level. For years, talent pipelines were focused on athletes; now, coaching talent is also being elevated into professional circuits. His progression helps illustrate that success at HBCU schools can now translate into opportunities at the NBA level.
In addition, it highlights how HBCU programs like TSU can serve as development grounds not only for players but also for coaches seen as viable for professional roles.
Legacy and Looking Ahead
Collins leaves TSU with a lasting legacy of competitiveness and player development both on the court and beyond. His impact has raised expectations for success in Nashville, and his move sets a new benchmark for future HBCU coaches.
As interim coach Buggs steps up, TSU faces a new chapter with plans still forming for whether an internal promotion or external search will fill the head coach role permanently. The next hire will inherit a program shaped by Collins’s values and performance standards
