A Strategic Addition to the Coaching Roster
The University of Tennessee at Martin announced today that Garrett Sams will serve as an assistant coach for the men's basketball program beginning with the 2026-27 season. The hiring underscores the university's commitment to strengthening its coaching pipeline with experienced talent.
Sams previously wore two hats at UT Martin. He began as a graduate assistant during the 2021-22 campaign, then returned to the role after a stint in professional basketball. His earlier tenure contributed to the development of 14 newcomers, among them KJ Simon, who earned All-Ohio Valley Conference first‑team honors under Sams' guidance.
More recently, Sams spent two seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he worked as a player development video coordinator. During the 2024-25 playoff run, his behind‑the‑scenes analysis helped shape the team's strategic adjustments, a experience that resonated with the franchise's management.
A Year of Growth at Baylor
In the 2023-24 season, Sams returned to the collegiate ranks as a graduate assistant under head coach Scott Drew at Baylor University. There, he refined his player development philosophy while working alongside one of the nation's most successful coaches.
Sams' playing background adds a unique dimension to his coaching. He starred at the University of North Florida, amassing 1,538 points, 548 rebounds, 226 assists and 121 steals over his collegiate career. His achievements included a first‑team All‑ASUN selection as a senior and an All‑ASUN Freshman honor, as well as a co‑regular season championship with the Ospreys.
After college, Sams pursued a professional career in Germany, suiting up for Paderborn Unibaskets and Vfl SparkassenStars Bochum. He later earned a degree in sports management from North Florida in 2020, a foundation that informs his analytical approach to the game.
The university's athletic director highlighted Sams' blend of playing experience, professional exposure, and coaching acumen as a perfect fit for the program's ambitions. "We are excited to welcome Garrett back to Martin, where his journey — from player to professional to coach — mirrors the path we hope to inspire in our student‑athletes," the director said.