Men's Basketball

Redlands' Head Men's Basketball Coach Smith Steps Down
Smith to Remain at the Helm through the 2006-07 Academic Year
July 19, 2006

Director of Athletics Jeff Martinez announced today that Head Men's Basketball Coach Gary Smith will step down from his responsibilities at the University of Redlands upon the conclusion of the 2006-07 academic year.

"Working here for 35 years has provided exceptional purpose to my career through the opportunity to help and affect the lives of students," commented Smith. "Not only has it enabled me to contribute in a small way to this exceptional institution and all it stands for, but it has been an honor to work with and learn from so many outstanding faculty, coaches, administrators and staff employees. The common sense of direction, from all constituencies, and the camaraderie experienced here have been quite special and are, in my opinion, what sets Redlands apart."

Smith began coaching at the University of Redlands in 1971-72, following a short stint at San Bernardino High School. Since then, he has compiled an overall record of 439-458, gaining his 400th win at the end of the 2002-03 season.

In conference competition, the Bulldogs have gone 221-221 under his leadership. He guided the men's basketball team to the 1975-76 conference championship, which was the program's first title since Smith's senior season in 1964. His teams captured the crown again in 1981-82, 1984-85 and 1989-90. During the 1984-85 season, the Redlands squad finished third at the NCAA Western Regional.

Smith later developed an up-tempo style of play, which led the team to three NCAA Division III National Scoring Championships in 1989, 1991, and 1992. The Bulldogs recently returned to a similar style and recaptured the scoring championship with a record-breaking season average of 132.4 in 2004-05.

Another highlight of Smith's career includes hosting Division I Villanova University in the opening game of the 2003-04 season. Despite suffering the 103-114 loss, the Bulldogs welcomed over 1100 fans to Currier Gym for this exciting match-up. Smith also captured Lee Fulmer Memorial Tournament Championships in 2003 and 2004, earning back-to-back titles for the first time since 1959 and 1960.

"Gary has been a vital part of our department and the university for more than 35 years," commented Martinez. "His integrity, passion for young people and unselfishness are exemplary not only to Redlands, but to all of college basketball. As a coach, he has served as a role model, positively influencing the lives of nearly 1000 young men who have played Bulldog basketball during his coaching tenure."

Beyond coaching, Smith has served as a professor and chair for the Department of Physical Education, teaching numerous activity and academic courses throughout his tenure. He has served as the advisor to all physical education minors, supervised internships, and taught in the University's first-year seminar program.

"He is the consummate educator, on the court, in the classroom and in everyday life," remarked Martinez.

Outside of Redlands, Smith served as an assistant coach for the West Team at the United States Olympic Festival held in St. Louis, MO, in July 1994, and worked for many years with the German Olympic Basketball Development Program. Due to Smith's outstanding worldwide reputation, Currier Gym has had the pleasure of hosting a number of international squads, including those from Germany, Australia, and Russia. In addition, Redlands teams have enjoyed unique travel opportunities that resulted from Smith's connections throughout Europe.

"As for the numerous relationships with student-athletes over the years, they remain priceless," added Smith. "The role of athletics continues to be valued here as a part of the liberal arts education and I am proud to have had the opportunity to carry forth a tradition of honor and integrity on the court."

Smith graduated from the University of Redlands and enjoyed a stellar playing career with the Bulldogs. A three-year varsity guard, he earned First Team All-Conference honors each season and was voted Team MVP during his junior and senior campaigns. Smith was twice-named to the NAIA All-District First Team and received NAIA All-American Honorable Mention. He also won the National Free Throw Championship in 1963 by posting an amazing 90.1% from the line.

Smith plans to remain involved in the game of basketball. He also looks forward to traveling and spending time with his family, having recently become a grandfather for the first time.