Stutts moving to UNA: FHU begins search for men’s head basketball coach

HENDERSON, Tenn. —— After leading Freed-Hardeman University to four consecutive Mid-South Conference championships, two regular-season titles and two NAIA National Championships, FHU men’s basketball head coach Drew Stutts is set to join his alma mater, the University of North Alabama, as an assistant coach.

Stutts, who has served as head coach since 2019, compiled a 139-51 record and became the fastest coach in program history to reach 100 career wins. During his tenure, he built a culture defined by excellence, discipline and Christ-centered development for student-athletes.

“These past seven years at FHU have been better than anything I could have ever dreamed,” Stutts said. “This place, this program and these people have been incredibly special to me and my family. We have been blessed beyond measure, and we will always be Lions. This season of my life has come to a close, and I truly believe God has made it abundantly clear that He is leading me to this next step at UNA.”

FHU President David R. Shannon praised Stutts’ impact both on and off the court.

“Coach Stutts has elevated our program while also pouring into the lives of our student-athletes, modeling Christian character and integrity every day,” Shannon said. “We are grateful for his leadership and the lasting legacy he leaves at FHU, and we wish him and his family God’s richest blessings in this next chapter.”

FHU Director of Athletics Jonathan Estes said the university will immediately begin a national search for its next head coach. Current assistant coach Grant Burns will serve as interim head coach during the search and will be a candidate for the head coaching position as well.

“We are committed to identifying a strong leader who will build on the foundation Coach Stutts has established and continue the tradition of excellence within our basketball program,” Estes said.

Stutts leaves behind a message of gratitude and faith.

“Don’t be sad it’s over, be thankful it happened,” Stutts said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this program and proud of what we accomplished together. I am excited to see what God has in store for the future.”

The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service.

Located in Henderson, Tennessee, FHU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees. More information is available at fhu.edu.

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