Billy Gillispie placed on leave: Why the Tarleton State coach is under investigation
Tarleton State coach Billy Gillispie. Image Credit: ESPN
Tarleton State University announced Friday, October 3, 2025, that men’s basketball head coach Billy Gillispie has been placed on temporary administrative leave. The Texas A&M University System initiated an employee conduct review following an anonymous complaint.
While the university has not disclosed details of the allegations, the decision has drawn national attention, as Gillispie is a well-known figure in college basketball with a career marked by both successes and controversies.
Why is Billy Gillispie under investigation?
The official statement confirmed the leave was triggered by an anonymous complaint received by the Texas A&M University System. At this time, no specifics regarding the nature of the complaint have been shared publicly, and no timeline has been given for the conclusion of the review.
Per Tarleton State’s personnel policy, the school will not comment further while the investigation is ongoing.
Who will lead Tarleton State in Gillispie’s absence?
With Billy Gillispie sidelined, Associate Head Coach Glynn Cyprien has been appointed as Acting Head Coach. Cyprien, who has extensive NCAA coaching experience, will guide the Texans as they prepare for the upcoming basketball season, including the highly anticipated Midnight Madness event later in October.
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A career shaped by highs and controversies
Billy Gillispie, now 65, was entering his sixth season at Tarleton State after being hired in March 2020 to lead the Texans’ transition from Division II to Division I. His tenure marks the longest stretch he has spent at one school as a head coach, compiling a 78–74 record, including a 25–10 run in the 2023–24 season and a CIT postseason appearance.
However, Gillispie’s coaching career has been overshadowed by previous controversies:
- In 2012, he resigned from Texas Tech, citing health reasons, following allegations of player mistreatment. The university had launched an investigation into his conduct before his departure.
- In 2009, he was fired after just two seasons at Kentucky, with athletic director Mitch Barnhart stating Gillispie was “not the right fit.” The dismissal led to a $3 million settlement.
- Earlier in his career, Gillispie led teams like UTEP and Texas A&M to NCAA Tournament appearances, building a reputation as a program rebuilder.
What’s next for Billy Gillispie and Tarleton State?
The outcome of the conduct review will determine Gillispie’s future at Tarleton State. Until the investigation is resolved, Cyprien will steer the team, while university officials maintain silence on the ongoing personnel matter.
For now, fans and analysts are left waiting to learn whether this marks another abrupt end in Gillispie’s turbulent coaching career or if he will return to the sidelines once the review is complete.
FAQ
Why is Billy Gillispie on leave at Tarleton State?
He was placed on temporary administrative leave after the Texas A&M University System launched a conduct review based on an anonymous complaint.
What is Billy Gillispie being investigated for?
The university has not disclosed details of the complaint or the scope of the investigation.
Who is replacing Billy Gillispie at Tarleton State?
Associate Head Coach Glynn Cyprien has been named Acting Head Coach during Gillispie’s leave.
Has Billy Gillispie faced controversies before?
Yes. He resigned from Texas Tech in 2012 amid allegations of player mistreatment and was fired from Kentucky in 2009 due to concerns over his treatment of staff and players.
How long has Billy Gillispie coached at Tarleton State?
He was hired in 2020 and is now in his sixth season, the longest tenure of his head coaching career.
What is Billy Gillispie’s coaching record at Tarleton State?
Gillispie has a 78–74 record with the Texans, including a 25–10 finish in the 2023–24 season and a CIT appearance.
What is Billy Gillispie’s overall coaching record?
Across multiple programs, he holds a career record of 226–182 with four NCAA Tournament appearances.
Will Billy Gillispie return to coaching?
That depends on the outcome of the ongoing conduct review. Tarleton State has not announced a timeline for the investigation.
What teams has Billy Gillispie coached before Tarleton State?
He has coached at UTEP, Texas A&M, Kentucky, and Texas Tech before joining Tarleton State in 2020.
Is this the first time Billy Gillispie has been investigated?
No. He previously faced investigations and controversies at Texas Tech and Kentucky related to his coaching methods and player treatment.