FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FINALLY GOT A CHANCE: TENNESSEE VOLS MEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACH RICK BARNES ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION AT 71 AS HE PLANS WEDDING WITH SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACH DAWN STALEY
KNOXVILLE, Tenn., April 30, 2025 — In a move that has taken the college basketball world by surprise, Rick Barnes, longtime head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers men’s basketball team, has officially announced his resignation at the age of 71. His decision marks the end of a remarkable coaching career — but also the beginning of a brand-new chapter: a wedding with South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball head coach, Dawn Staley.
Barnes, who has spent the past nine seasons revitalizing Tennessee’s basketball program, made the emotional announcement during a press conference at Thompson-Boling Arena. “Basketball has given me so much, but now it’s time to give something back to my heart,” Barnes said. “Dawn and I have shared a bond rooted in mutual respect and love for the game — and that bond has grown beyond the court.”
Dawn Staley, a coaching legend in her own right, led the Gamecocks to multiple national titles and helped redefine excellence in women’s basketball. Her relationship with Barnes reportedly blossomed over the last few years during coaching conferences and community initiatives that brought the two iconic figures together.
The wedding is set to take place later this year in Charleston, South Carolina, with family, former players, and coaching peers expected to attend. “It’s funny how life plays out,” Staley commented. “Rick and I have supported each other through big wins and hard losses. Now we’re building a future together, off the hardwood.”
Barnes leaves behind a legacy of leadership, having coached over four decades with stints at Providence, Clemson, Texas, and finally, Tennessee. His ability to develop players, maintain integrity, and instill discipline in his teams made him one of the most respected figures in the game.
Despite the romantic turn of events, both Barnes and Staley remain committed to their respective institutions. Staley confirmed she will continue coaching the South Carolina women’s team. “This doesn’t change my drive to win,” she assured. “But it adds a new level of joy to my life.”
University of Tennessee Athletics Director Danny White praised Barnes for his service, saying, “Rick Barnes was more than a coach — he was a mentor and a pillar in our athletics department. We wish him the best in this next phase of life.”
Fans have reacted with a mix of shock and admiration on social media, many praising the couple for prioritizing personal happiness. One user tweeted, “They’ve both won championships, now they’re winning in life.”
Though he’s stepping away from the sidelines, Barnes hinted at staying close to the game in some capacity. “I won’t be far,” he said with a smile. “Maybe you’ll see me in the stands — cheering for both the Vols and the Gamecocks.”
This unexpected twist in college basketball not only marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a love story years in the making. As Barnes put it: “It’s never too late to take your shot.”
Contact:
University of Tennessee Athletics Communications
Email: utathletics@tennessee.edu
Phone: (865) 974-1212
###