Stetson University Director of Athletics Jeff Altier has announced the extension of Men’s Basketball Head Coach Donnie Jones through the 2030 season.
“While my tenure as Athletic Director is coming to an end, I am thrilled to be able to put Stetson Basketball in a great position for the future by extending Donnie Jones‘s contract to the end of the decade. Donnie is an outstanding coach and better person. We have not only had unprecedented athletic success but have developed a program with young men that achieve in the classroom and in the community. This comes as a result of his leadership and commitment to Stetson’s values,” said Director of Athletics Jeff Altier.
In his fifth season Jones led the 2023-24 Hatters to a 22-13 record, their second winning season in a row, on their way to their first ASUN Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance. In a season with a tough schedule, Stetson was able to beat Milwaukee and Central Michigan on their way to winning the Sunshine Slam before upsetting UCF. Stetson finished the season 11-5 in conference play and starting it off in spectacular fashion with a buzzer beater victory over North Florida.
The 2023-24 season was one of the best statistical seasons in program history as Jalen Blackmon, Stephan Swenson, and Aubin Gateretse led the charge. Blackmon and Swenson each hit the 1000-point milestone and Josh Smith grabbed his 500th career rebound. Blackmon, Swenson and Gateretse all were named to the ASUN All-Tournament Team with Blackmon grabbing the MVP with an ASUN Championship record 43 points in the final. The team ranked second in points scored in a season, fourth in field goals made, third in field goals attempted, first in three-point field goals made, first in three-point field goals attempted, and second in free throw percentage in Stetson history. This team also tied the school record for most wins in a season at 22.
“Signing this extension to continue leading the Stetson University Men’s Basketball program is a testament to our love for this school and community,” state Head Coach Donnie Jones. “Michelle and I are grateful for the incredible leadership and trust shown by President Roellke and Stetson University. There’s no doubt in our minds that this is the best time to be a part of the incredible journey and countless opportunities unfolding here at Stetson University.”
Coach Jones sits fourth all time in wins among head coaches of the Hatters at 78-78. During his tenure he also brought the Hatters their first postseason appearance at the Division 1 level at the CBI in 2020-21 season. Stetson was back in the CBI in the 2022-23 season as well.
https://gohatters.com/news/2024/4/22/womens-tennis-donnie-jones-extended-through-2030.aspx
