Tanner Smith was named the men's basketball head coach at the University of West Florida in April 2026.
As the head coach, he is responsible for leading all facets of the UWF men's basketball program. His responsibilities encompass overseeing recruiting, player development, game strategy, and managing practices and competitions. Additionally, he ensures compliance with NCAA rules and represents the program within the university and the larger community.
Prior to assuming this role, Tanner brought a wealth of coaching experience from various institutions, showcasing his dedication and strategic acumen in basketball.
Before joining the University of West Florida, Tanner served as the associate head men's basketball coach at Appalachian State from 2023 to 2026. In this role, he was instrumental in shaping the team's competitive strategy and player development. His journey in coaching also includes valuable experiences as an assistant coach at Steven F. Austin from 2021 to 2023 and at Kennesaw State for the 2020-2021 season. Tanner's career also features a significant stint as the Director of Men's Basketball Operations at Mississippi State during the 2018-2019 season. Before that, he was an integral part of the Charlotte 49ers coaching staff, serving first as the Director of Basketball Operations from 2014 to 2017 and then as an assistant coach for the 2017-2018 season.
Tanner's educational background is rooted in Clemson University, where he graduated in 2012 with a degree in Marketing. His time at Clemson was marked by impressive athletic achievements on the basketball court, as he amassed 986 points, 459 rebounds, 320 assists, and 159 steals, contributing to Clemson's three NCAA Tournament appearances. Notably, he was the first player in Clemson history and the only ACC player in 2012 to average at least 10 points, five rebounds, and four assists, underscoring his versatility and impact on the game.
Off the court, Tanner Smith is a family man, enjoying life with his wife, Julia, and their two sons, Stone and Steele. A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Tanner's roots in the sport-rich culture of the city have profoundly influenced his career in basketball.
