by Shawn Nowlin
On April 25, 2016, Roanoke College hired Clay Nunley to lead its men’s basketball program. Over the last decade, the return on investment speaks for itself: ten players earning All-ODAC honors, consecutive winning seasons, a nearly 70 percent winning clip and an impressive student-athlete graduation rate.
Any organization would gladly welcome that type of productivity.
Said Nunley at his introductory press conference, “It is a distinct privilege to be here. I’ve always had a great deal of respect for Roanoke College. I’ve never come across a person who has been affiliated with the school – from current faculty members to alums – who didn’t rave about their time here. That certainly made a great impression on me.”
He added, “So many people have made this program what it is today. I recently met with the players, and I want them to know I understand they didn’t choose me. They came here to play for Coach Moir. I hope it comes across as a compliment that I chose them.”
In a game against Shenandoah on Feb. 14, Nunley secured career win number 300. With Marcus Morgan scoring 21 points, grabbing 10 rebounds and dishing out four assists alongside Gavin O’Malley contributing 11 points, the game was never in doubt from the start.
“There are things viewed as individual accomplishments that are nothing but a reflection of a group effort. I’ve done nothing in those wins from a statistical standpoint. The players and assistant coaches have really supported me. I’m grateful for all the people who have blessed my life,” he told reporters after the game.
Prior to Roanoke, Nunley had coaching stints at the United States Military Academy, Wright State University and Randolph-Macon. Over his career, he served as a recruiting coordinator, assistant coach, practice planner and on-court instructor.
A graduate from Goucher College in Baltimore, Nunley was a four-year letterman for the Gophers who captured two Capital Athletic Conference Championships during his career.
Since 1967, just five men have led the Roanoke program: Charlie Moir (1967-73), Mel Hankinson (1973-77), Ed Green (1977-89), Page Moir (1989-2016) and Nunley (2016-present).
With Coach Nunley on the sidelines, Roanoke College fans believe they always have a chance to win, regardless of the opponent they are facing. Winning the NCAA Division III championship is within the realms of possibility if the Maroons play to their potential.
