Jason Tinsley to head men’s basketball program

UNCP has announced that Jason Tinsley has been appointed head coach of the men’s basketball program. Tinsley, who just completed his 15th year in the coaching ranks, had served as UNCP’s assistant men’s coach during the 2003-04 season. Tinsley replaces Bryan Garmroth, whose coaching contract was not renewed at the completion of the season, his second with the Braves.

“This is somewhat bittersweet, but I’m grateful and excited for this opportunity,” said Tinsley, who had been a friend and colleague of Garmroth for over ten years. “I set goals for my life and career in stages, and being named head coach of a collegiate program at age 40 completes one stage.”

The former head coach of Bossier Parish Community College, Tinsley compiled a 52-35 overall record during his three-year tenure with the Cavaliers. He led his 2001-02 squad to the Mississippi-Louisiana Conference Championship and a runner-up finish in the National Junior College Athletic Association Region 23 tournament later that same year. He was rewarded for his accomplishments by being named the 2002 Louisiana Association of Basketball Coaches Junior College Coach of the Year.

Tinsley has also served as assistant coach with Northwestern State University, Southwest Missouri State University, and Georgia Southwestern College, as well as head coach at Pine Prairie and South Beauregard High Schools.

His coaching experience has left him proficient in recruiting, scouting, game and practice preparation, on-floor coaching, academic advising, and scheduling.

“Jason Tinsley brings enthusiasm, positive energy, great communication skills, and a commitment to developing strong relationships with his players,” said Athletics Director Dan Kenney. “Not only is UNCP getting someone who has worked on the Division I level, but the University is also getting someone who has put together an excellent recruiting record.”

A native of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Tinsley believes that returning players will be the key to success.

“I want to breathe the passion for basketball into the players that are already here,” said Tinsley. “We will play an aggressive, up-tempo style with an intensity that no one will match or surpass.” He added, “In all walks of life, people resist giving a high level of effort because it is easier to do something less difficult. To be successful, you must overcome that.”

A 1989 graduate of Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, Tinsley completed his Master of Education in Sport Administration at his alma mater in 1997. In addition to his coaching duties, he will serve as a lecturer in UNCP’s HPER department.