Desmond Balentine has been named Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Tiffin University.
Balentine recently completed his second season with the Tiffin program in 2023-24 as the Associate Head Coach.
Balentine started his coaching career at his alma mater Incarnate Word as a Graduate Assistant. In addition to his assistant coaching responsibilities, Balentine would take on duties of player development, scouting breakdown, and video breakdown.
Balentine played two seasons at the University of Incarnate Word under Dr. Carson Cunningham, where he was voted team captain two years in a row, helping lead the UIW Cardinals on and off the court. He was a part of the only team in school history to make the post-season conference tournament (2020-2021). The team was also active in the community, setting a new program record with 300 hours of community service while also posting amongst national leaders with a team GPA of 3.37.
Balentine also played two years at Tyler Junior College under Coach Mike Marquis with a record of 50-11 in those two years. He placed third in scoring and first in assists while at TJC, helping lead Tyler Junior College to a Region 14 Championship and making it to the National Junior College Tournament in the 2018 season.
Balentine graduated from Incarnate Word with a bachelor’s degree in Cultural Studies and a master’s degree in Communications. Des and his wife Kirsten currently reside in Tiffin.
“I’m incredibly honored to be chosen as the next head coach at Tiffin University,” said Balentine, “Thank you to Athletic Director Kelly Daniel and President Dr. Lillian Schumacher for trusting me with this opportunity. I’d also be remiss if I didn’t thank Tom Church for the opportunity to come to TU two years ago and I want to wish him and his family well. With that being said, my wife and I are glad to continue to represent the Tiffin Community!”
“We are excited to promote Des to the role of Head Coach,” said Athletic Director Kelly Daniel. “He was an instrumental part of the success of the men’s basketball program and there is no one better to lead and carry on our basketball tradition. Des brings knowledge and passion to the program all while providing a positive impact to our student athletes on the court, in the classroom, and in life. Des is ready to take us to the next level and keep building on our success. Dragon Nation is ready and Des is ready to get to work!”
https://gotiffindragons.com/news/2024/4/24/balentine-named-head-mens-basketball-coach.aspx
