On Tuesday afternoon, it was announced that Jason Shay is stepping down from his role as the ETSU men’s basketball head coach after his first season in the position.
“Earlier today Coach Jason Shay shared with me his intention to resign as head men’s basketball coach at East Tennessee State University,” ETSU Athletic Director Scott Carter said via news release. “I fully respect Coach Shay’s decision and have accepted his resignation. Coach Shay is part of our championship history at ETSU, and I thank him and his family for the effort they have given to our university.”
Shay has spent the past six years with the program; five were spent as an assistant coach. Shay posted a 13-12 season last year after being named the head coach in 2020.
“After much consultation and deliberation, I have decided it is in the best interest of myself, my family and the ETSU men’s basketball program to no longer continue as the head basketball coach,” Shay said in the news release. “This past year has been extremely challenging for me in many different ways. It is the right time for a new challenge and an opportunity to reset my personal and professional goals. I want to thank Dr. Noland, Scott Carter and Dr. Sander for the opportunity at ETSU and wish them the best of luck moving forward.”
Under Shay, the Bucs made a run in the 2021 Southern Conference Tournament before eventually falling to University of North Carolina Greensboro in the semifinal round on March 7.
“To my players and staff, thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and belief in me and our program,” Shay continued. “Leaving you will be the most difficult part as I truly love each and every one of you. Thank you to Buc Nation for your continued support and cheers, your unwavering energy and enthusiasm is what makes ETSU such a special place. Johnson City has been home for the past six years, and our family will always hold a special place in our hearts for the community and support.”
The search for ETSU’s next men’s basketball head coach is set to begin immediately.
