Wayne State University Director of Athletics Rob Fournier announced the retirement of WSU head men’s basketball coach David Greer effective immediately.
“The contribution of David to this department goes far beyond the winningest coach in our 104-year basketball history,” remarked Fournier. “It is a legacy realized everyday with the hundreds of young people who he has impacted, and in many of those cases, positively altered the course of their lives. That is a story that will be overlooked by many … but not by me or the young men who were the recipients of that personal guidance.
“David was the first head coach I ever hired when I first arrived at WSU, and now, after 20 years, I can attest he epitomized what we aspire towards everyday as a department – the graduation of student athletes, an unyielding emphasis on academic success, never forgetting the opportunity and shared understanding of community outreach and the hard work and determination that he embodied each and every day and is reflected in successes far beyond the court.
“People will read about David’s decision and believe, or imagine, whatever they want when a coach steps down. But I can best summarize his choice as like a great coach, or like a great player, knowing when it is best to step off the stage. In this case, leaving behind some great performances that some witnessed on the court but also so many more were realized outside the spotlight. I feel blessed to have seen both.”
Greer, who was hired in October of 2001, led the Warriors to five NCAA Tournament appearances (2004, 2005, 2011, 2013 and 2021) and was a two-time GLIAC Coach of the Year award recipient (2012-2013 and 2021). Wayne State won the GLIAC Tournament title in 2011 and earned GLIAC regular-season titles in both 2012-13 and 2021. The all-time winningest coach in WSU history with 266 victories, Greer also set the school record for seasons coached.
“First of all, thanks to President M. Roy Wilson for his leadership and commitment to athletics,” stated Greer. “And to my boss Rob Fournier, in my opinion the best athletic director regardless of Division (I, II or III). He has provided great leadership for all student-athletes, and what he has done with the athletic campus is nothing short of amazing. Obviously to work for the same boss for 20 years is a big advantage. He has been good to me and my family and I certainly enjoyed working for him.
“To the best recruit I’ve ever had. My lovely and talented wife Dr. Bertie Greer. Thanks for being a role mode to our three kids (Joshua, Courtney and David). Thanks for sharing me with so many strangers. Your leadership of our family has been amazing.
“Thanks to all my colleagues and administrators that continue to push the athletic department forward every day.
“The timing is not the best, but I always told myself that whenever I wake up and the passion was not there, it was time to do something else.
“I have faith in my staff (Lorenzo Neely and E.J. Haralson). They have been with me almost since day one. They will do a good job and provide leadership for the program.
“Thanks to all the Tartars/Warriors for embracing me and my family throughout the years. I’ve met some amazing people and I will certainly cherish all the friendships.
“Thanks to all the mothers and fathers that entrusted their young men to us at Wayne State. I take great pride in the people we developed over the years.
“I’ve been part of a team my whole life and now that is coming to an end it is scary. I am certainly appreciative of Wayne State University for allowing me to be part of their team,” added Greer.
Long-time assistant coach E.J. Haralson will serve as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
BREAKING: D2 Wayne State opens
