I mentioned this move back on 4/7 (D2 DIRT). It’s now been made official – Wofford’s Will Murphy has been hired as the new head basketball coach at D2 Florida Tech. Here’s the official statement:
Florida Tech Director of Athletics Jamie Joss announces announce the hiring of Will Murphy as the next head coach of the Panthers men’s basketball program. Murphy brings a dynamic blend of coaching experience, recruiting expertise, and a deep commitment to scholar-athlete development.
Murphy becomes the 12th head coach in program history.
“We are proud to announce the hiring of Will as our head men’s basketball coach,” said Joss. “With a robust background at the Division I level under esteemed coaches such as Mike Young and Dwight Perry, Will brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our program. His deep understanding of recruiting high academic performers at Wofford and Wake Forest aligns perfectly with the caliber of scholars we strive to attract to Florida Tech to be the next Scholars, Champions, and Leaders.
“As a math major with a tremendous basketball IQ—both offensively and defensively—Will offers a unique perspective that enhances his analytical approach to the game, making him a tenacious student of the game. He is not only a strong leader but also someone who genuinely connects with his players, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration.
“Will has methodically prepared for this opportunity, committing nearly a decade to assisting three coaches at Wofford who experienced great success in advancing to the NCAA tournament. He has mastered both the tangibles and intangibles necessary for effective coaching and is ready to shape those traits into his own personal coaching style and philosophy. We are confident that his dedication and expertise will lead to a quick ascension within the competitive Sunshine State Conference, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact he will have on our men’s basketball program.”
Murphy joins the Panthers after making a significant impact at Wofford College, where he spent eight seasons with the program. Initially hired as the director of basketball operations in 2017, he was elevated to assistant coach later that year and to associate head coach in August 2023. Over the course of his tenure, Murphy helped guide Wofford to seven consecutive winning seasons and multiple postseason appearances and developed a reputation for excellence in the Southern Conference.
“My wife, Pearson, and I fell in love with Florida Tech during our visit,” said Murphy. “I deeply resonate with the mission set forth by Athletic Director Jamie Joss and President Dr. John Nicklow—to develop scholar-athletes while building a championship-caliber program. Florida Tech’s strong academic profile is a major asset and will be a key attraction for scholar-athletes who are committed to winning both on the court and in the classroom. Florida Tech is primed for growth in every aspect, and I’m eager to contribute to this exciting journey.”
In 2018-19, Wofford went 30-5 overall and a perfect 18-0 in SoCon play, capturing the conference tournament title and earning a No. 7 seed in the NCAA Tournament—where the Terriers notched their first-ever NCAA victory with a win over Seton Hall and finished the season ranked No. 19 in the AP Top 25. Under Murphy’s guidance, the program produced multiple All-Conference standouts, including SoCon Players of the Year Fletcher Magee and B.J. Mack. Wofford’s success included a road win over No. 17 North Carolina, back-to-back semifinal appearances in the SoCon Tournament, and continued postseason consistency even amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Murphy played a vital role in recruiting, player development, game planning, and scouting. In recognition of his impact, he was named to the NABC Under Armour 30-Under-30 list following the 2019-20 season.
Before joining the Terriers, Murphy spent the previous season as the director of player development for Wake Forest. Prior to that role, Murphy spent three seasons in Winston-Salem as the video coordinator and the director of technology and scouting for the Demon Deacons.
Murphy started his career at Wake Forest as a student manager before joining the active roster as a walk-on guard.
He graduated from Wake Forest in May of 2013 with a degree in mathematical business.
Florida Tech will formally introduce the new Panthers men’s basketball head coach, Will Murphy, at a press conference in the Clemente Center Gym at 1 p.m on Tuesday, April 15.
Special thanks to Dr. Kurt Patberg of Mammoth Sports Consulting for their guidance and assistance during this search.
