Clemson University has announced a contract extension for head basketball coach Brad Brownell, securing his leadership through 2031. The agreement, approved by the Clemson University Board of Trustees Compensation Committee, underscores the program’s confidence in Brownell’s ability to sustain and build on the team’s recent successes.
Since joining Clemson 15 years ago, Brad Brownell has become the winningest coach in program history, amassing 292 victories. His tenure includes significant milestones, such as earning the 2017-18 Sports Illustrated National College Coach of the Year award and guiding the Tigers to five NCAA Tournament appearances. These include a Sweet 16 run in 2018 and an Elite Eight berth in 2024, positioning Clemson among only 20 schools to achieve such results in separate seasons since 2018.
The 2024-25 season was a particularly notable chapter in Brownell’s tenure. The Tigers set a school record with 27 wins, highlighted by victories over AP Top 5 teams Kentucky and Duke. Clemson’s 18-2 record in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) marked the highest number of conference wins in the program’s history, with 15 of those victories achieved by double-digit margins—a feat matched by only two other teams in ACC history. Their 9-1 road record in conference play further demonstrated the team’s resilience and strategic prowess.
Over the last three seasons, Clemson has secured 74 wins, the highest three-year total in school history, alongside a .717 win percentage (43-17) in ACC play—another program record. Since the 2017-18 season, Clemson ranks fourth in the ACC in both total wins (168) and conference victories (90).
Player development has been a cornerstone of Brownell’s approach. The program has consistently produced standout performers, with an All-ACC First Team player emerging in each of the last three seasons: Chase Hunter (2025), PJ Hall (2024), and Hunter Tyson (2023). These accolades reflect a commitment to cultivating talent and maintaining a competitive edge within one of the nation’s most challenging conferences.
In a statement, Brownell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue leading Clemson basketball. “I remain honored and grateful to have led this program for 15 years and for the opportunity to continue to coach and develop young people in both basketball and life at Clemson,” he said. Brownell also credited his staff, including associate head coach Billy Donlon and assistants Sean Dixon and Dick Bender, who have played critical roles in recruiting, player development, and the team’s sustained success. Notably, these staff members have also received contract extensions through the 2026-27 season.
“I remain honored and grateful to have led this program for 15 years and for the opportunity to continue to coach and develop young people in both basketball and life at Clemson,” said Brownell. “I’m appreciative of the support from Graham Neff, President Jim Clements and our administration to continue to build upon our successes in basketball – on and off the court. I’m proud of the continuity of my staff and the critical role they play in winning, player development and recruiting.”
Brad Brownell
Clemson’s upward trajectory under Brownell’s leadership has not gone unnoticed. Athletic Director Graham Neff and University President Jim Clements have both praised Brownell for fostering a culture of excellence both on and off the court. The program’s consistent improvement, coupled with its emphasis on academic achievement and community engagement, underscores the comprehensive impact of Brownell’s tenure.
The extension of Brad Brownell’s contract through 2031 signals Clemson’s confidence in his vision for the program. As the Tigers continue to break records and develop standout talent, the agreement ensures stability and sustained growth for Clemson basketball. With a strong foundation and a clear path forward, the team appears well-positioned to remain a competitive force in the ACC and beyond.
