Justin Gainey is in his first week as the new head basketball coach at NC State. But the former Tennessee associate head coach posted a farewell message to the Vol basketball on Monday morning.
“It’s hard to put into words what University of Tennessee has meant to me and my family,” Gainey wrote in an Instagram post. “This place, these people, and this program have had a lasting impact on my life—both professionally and personally.
“I want to thank our players—past and present—for the trust, commitment, and heart you brought every single day. It’s been an honor to coach you, to grow with you, and to compete alongside you. The relationships built here are what I’ll cherish the most.
“To my colleagues, staff, and the entire Tennessee athletics family—thank you for your support, professionalism, and belief. And to Vol Nation, your passion is second to none. You made Thompson-Boling Arena one of the toughest environments in the country, and I’m grateful to have experienced it with you.”
Gainey spent the last five seasons on Tennessee’s coaching staff including four years as the Vols’ associate head coach. The Vols won the SEC Regular-Season and SEC Tournament, made four trips to the Sweet 16 and three trips to the Elite Eight during Gainey’s time on staff.
After Mike Schwartz left to be the head coach at East Carolina following the 2021-22 season, Gainey became Tennessee’s “defensive coordinator.”
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The Vols have consistently been great on the defensive end under Barnes but ranked No. 1, No. 3 and No. 1, again, in KenPom adjusted defensive efficiency during Gainey’s three years as the “defensive coordinator.” They took a step back this past year but still finished the season ranked 14th nationally in adjusted defensive efficiency.
Gainey— who previously worked under Herb Sendek, Sean Miller and Steve Wojciechowski— also specifically thanked Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes in his farewell post.
“I want to give a special thank you to Coach Rick Barnes,” Gainey wrote. “Coach Barnes has been an incredible mentor, leader, and example of what it means to do this job the right way. I’m grateful for his guidance, his trust, and the opportunity he gave me to be a part of something special here at Tennessee. I’ve learned so much from him that I will carry with me throughout my career.”
The former NC State guard is now turning his attention to rebuilding his alma mater after Will Wade’s lone season as head coach. Tennessee assistant director of player development Riley Collins is heading to Raleigh as an assistant coach under Gainey.
The transfer portal officially opens on Tuesday and Gainey’s staff, like every other across the country, will look to build a competitive roster for next season.
“I am excited for the opportunity to lead the program at NC State Wolfpack men’s basketball,” Gainey wrote. “I look forward to this next chapter, but I will always carry a deep appreciation and respect for Tennessee. Thank you for everything. Go Vols, always.
