On Friday, Vanderbilt tabbed Jerry Stackhouse as Vanderbilt University’s men’s basketball head coach. Stackhouse arrives at Vanderbilt after one season as an assistant with the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies and two as a head coach in the NBA G League. Stackhouse, a graduate of the University of North Carolina, also played 18 seasons in the NBA and was a two-time All-Star.
Here is what people are saying about Vanderbilt’s hire of Stackhouse:
“It’s been wonderful to see Jerry’s career as not only a great player, but a terrific coach and mentor. He’s competed at the highest level and always does it the right way – with hard work, respect and a genuine love for the game. He’ll be a valued leader for the Vanderbilt community.” – Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner
“Congratulations to Coach Stackhouse on being named the head coach of Vanderbilt’s men’s basketball team. While he was only a part of our coaching staff for one season, it was clear to see he has so many head coaching qualities including his work ethic, basketball knowledge and engaging personality. It is evident that he has tackled the coaching profession with the same approach and determination he had as a player and we will miss having him as part of our staff. We wish Stack all the best as he leads the Commodores program at a highly-respected institution right down Interstate 40 in Nashville.” — Chris Wallace, Memphis Grizzlies general manager
“Jerry was one of our great players at Carolina and was an outstanding player in the NBA for a long time. He has paid his dues to prepare for this job — coaching in the G League and sponsoring and coaching teams at the high school level. He is eager to be a college head coach and I can’t think of anyone who is more prepared to do a great job at Vanderbilt than Jerry.” – Roy Williams, North Carolina head men’s basketball coach
“I have known Stack since we were AAU teammates in the early ’90s. He has always had a terrific feel for the game that allowed him to excel at the highest levels in high school, college and in the NBA. I was impressed with his ability to connect with and develop players as an AAU coach. His coaching experience in the NBA, including winning the 2017 G League championship as head coach of Raptors 905, has him well prepared for this opportunity. Jerry Stackhouse is an excellent choice to lead the Vanderbilt program.” – Jeff Capel, Pittsburgh head men’s basketball coach
“The right combination of college and NBA experience, along with his commitment to grassroots basketball through his AAU team, gives Jerry a clear understanding of what it takes to recruit high school players to the college ranks. I am excited for Jerry and for Vanderbilt Basketball. With Jerry at the helm, they should see immediate success for their program. I have no doubt that Jerry will build a strong basketball tradition there.” – Leonard Hamilton, Florida State head men’s basketball coach
“We welcome Jerry Stackhouse to the SEC and wish him a successful transition to his position as head men’s basketball coach at Vanderbilt. Jerry’s experience as a student-athlete and standout NBA player, and his background developing young people are important qualities that he brings to Vanderbilt. We look forward to his contribution to the continued success of SEC basketball.” – Greg Sankey, SEC commissioner
