Brother-sister duo lead Freed-Hardeman basketball programs to top national seeds

HENDERSON, Tenn. — Freed-Hardeman University’s men’s and women’s basketball programs have both been named the No. 1 overall seeds in their respective national tournaments, which begin next weekend.

The two programs share something beyond their rankings: their head coaches, Drew Stutts and Abby Stutts, are brother and sister. Neither coach said they anticipated ending up at the same school at the college level.

“No. Not at the college level. I thought, maybe at the high school level one day we might wind up at the same place. But to be at a college where we’re getting to do it together, but being able to do it and be on top is a lot of fun,” Drew said.

Abby said she did not see it coming either.

Both teams won their conference championships in Kentucky within days of each other. After the wins, the Stutts family gathered for a photo together.

“They stayed until the very end and it shows the closeness of our family and how we’re supportive for each other,” Abby said.

Drew said the family support has been consistent regardless of the outcome on the court.

“My parents and our other sister Ella live in Florence. So, they’ve been extremely supportive of us our entire time here. Like Abby said, whether we are winning or losing they’re going to be there. We would probably still take a family photo because that’s how my dad is,” Drew said.

Both coaches said the experience of working alongside each other goes beyond wins and losses.

“It has been awesome. It has been awesome. My family is here and Abby being here with us. Usually when we are not here at the office together, we are at home or at her house, or by the pool and hanging out. Getting to share this experience with a sibling has been incredible,” Drew said.

Abby said the proximity — both professionally and personally — has made the situation unique.

“Our offices are right next door to each other, we see each other after practice, we see each other on road games. That has been really special. But, even more than just basketball, getting to have family here and other family is not too far has brought us all together and it has been really fun,” Abby said.

Both teams open national tournament play Friday, March 13, with games at 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

For more Chester County news, click here.