STOCKTON, Calif. — In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the University of the Pacific community, the university has announced the reassignment of Leonard Perry, the head coach of the men’s basketball program. The announcement came on Monday, marking a significant shift in the program's leadership amid a challenging season.
Leonard Perry, who had been at the helm of the Tigers for three seasons, will transition to a new role within the university, leaving the team in search of a new head coach. Under Perry's guidance since 2021, the Tigers have struggled to find their footing this season, currently standing at a 6-25 overall record and an 0-16 record in conference play. Over his tenure, Perry amassed a 29-65 record as the head coach of Pacific’s basketball team.
Stepping in as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season is Josh Newman, the team’s associate head coach. Newman, who joined the men’s basketball staff in 2021 and was promoted to associate head coach in November, is now tasked with leading the Tigers through the upcoming West Coast Conference Tournament. His first challenge will be facing Pepperdine in the first round of the tournament this Thursday at 2:30 pm in Las Vegas.
The decision to reassign Perry comes at a critical juncture for the Tigers, as they look to navigate the remainder of a difficult season and rebuild for the future. Newman’s experience and familiarity with the team will be invaluable as the Tigers aim to make a strong showing in the WCC Tournament and lay the groundwork for the coming seasons.
As the University of the Pacific embarks on its search for a new head coach, the focus will undoubtedly be on finding a leader who can invigorate the program and lead the Tigers to success in the highly competitive landscape of college basketball. The Pacific community and fans alike will be keenly watching as the team transitions under Newman’s interim leadership and anticipates the arrival of a new era for Pacific men’s basketball.
