Memphis is in discussions with former Louisville assistant coach Nolan Smith for one of its open assistant spots, sources tell Hitmen Hoops. The program was eyeing Smith for the same role before he took a position on Kenny Payne’s staff at Louisville in 2022. He remained with the Cardinals until this off-season.
What could the Tigers be getting from Smith?
Who is Nolan Smith?
Nolan Smith is a former star player at Duke who also brings eight years of experience as an assistant coach at the college basketball level.
Smith attended Oak Hill Academy and was a McDonald’s All-American out of high school. He committed to play basketball for Mike Krzyzewski and the Duke Blue Devils in 2006. He spent four years in the program, winning the national championship in 2010 and ACC Player of the Year in 2011, his senior season.
Smith was selected 21st overall by the Portland Trailblazers in the 2013 NBA Draft. He spent two years with the team and subsequently played a few years overseas before starting his coaching career.
Smith’s Coaching Experience
Smith began his coaching career with his alma mater as a special assistant on Duke’s staff in February 2016. He was promoted to director of basketball operations and player development in March 2018. In April 2021, he was named as an assistant coach and spent a year in that role.
In April 2022, he joined Kenny Payne’s staff at Louisville. Smith’s father, Derek, played for the Cardinals and was a member of Louisville’s national championship winning team in 1980. The program fired Payne after just two seasons and an overall record of 12-52, leading Smith to seek other opportunities.
What He Brings
The 35-year old Nolan Smith is a successful coach and recruiter with years of experience both as a player and on the sidelines. He has coached at the highest levels of college basketball in the ACC and has plenty of connections and a history of success on the recruiting trail. He was successful as a recruiter at Duke and helped Louisville similarly, assembling a top ten class in 2023.
This would be an intriguing hire for Penny Hardaway and Memphis. Smith is a young and talented coach with experience and room to grow. His recruiting success and big game experience, both as a player and a coach, could be incredibly valuable for the Tigers.
