News Summary
Savannah State University has appointed Clevan Thompson as the new head coach of its men’s basketball program, following a successful interim period. Thompson led the Tigers to a strong record and the SIAC Championship, securing their NCAA Division II tournament berth. As the 12th head coach in SSU history, he aims to maintain the program’s excellence while positively impacting student athletes. His extensive coaching experience and commitment to SSU highlight the university’s confidence in his leadership as they enhance their athletic programs.
Savannah, Georgia – Savannah State University (SSU) has officially appointed Clevan Thompson as the head coach of its men’s basketball program, marking a significant milestone for the university’s athletic department. Thompson, who was serving as the interim head coach since January 6, 2025, will take over the role permanently following a successful interim stint that concluded with the Tigers’ triumphant season.
During his time as interim coach, Thompson led the Tigers to an impressive record of 13 wins and 6 losses and achieved a flawless 7-0 record at home. Under his guidance, the team captured the 2025 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Men’s Basketball Tournament Championship, which earned them a coveted spot in the NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Tournament.
Thompson becomes the 12th head coach in the history of SSU’s men’s basketball program. His appointment reflects the university’s confidence in his leadership after demonstrating success on the court during his interim tenure.
Thompson, a 2003 graduate of Savannah State with a degree in computer information systems, has been involved with the SSU men’s basketball program since the 2023-2024 season. Before joining SSU, he spent 13 years as the head boys’ basketball coach at Bethesda Academy, amassing a record of 244 wins, 117 losses, and 1 tie. His teams made twelve Final Four appearances and reached eight state championship games, winning two state championships: the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) title in 2012 and the South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA) Class AAA title in 2015. Thompson’s achievements at Bethesda Academy earned him recognition as Coach of the Year in both 2012 and 2015.
In addressing his appointment, Thompson expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his alma mater and acknowledged the profound impact SSU has had on his life. This sentiment underscores his commitment to fostering a program that prioritizes excellence on the court while making a meaningful impact off the court.
Savannah State University President Jermaine Whirl has commended Thompson for his excellence and dedication, emphasizing the significance of his leadership in shaping the future of the men’s basketball program and its influence on students and the community.
A formal press conference to introduce Thompson and outline his vision for the team will be scheduled and announced in the coming weeks, providing an opportunity for fans and the community to engage directly with their new head coach.
This change in leadership is part of a broader strategy at Savannah State University to enhance its athletic programs and provide student-athletes with the resources and support necessary for both athletic and academic success.
As Thompson embarks on this new chapter, he is poised to build on the Tigers’ recent achievements, aiming for sustained excellence in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Quentin Brooks Becomes First Bethesda Academy Golfer to Sign with Savannah State
Clevan Thompson Appointed Head Coach of Savannah State Basketball
Bethesda Academy Golfer Signs with Savannah State University
Savannah Civil Service Board Calls Suspension of Corporal Keel Unjustified
Tragic Midair Collision Claims Lives of Three Soldiers
Richmond Hill Opens New High School Campus
Georgia Reports Highest Workplace Sex Discrimination Rates
Georgia Hotel Revenue Sees Significant Growth
Savannah Technical College Launches Guaranteed Transfer Program
Savannah Leaders Recognized Among Georgia’s Most Influential Women in Engineering
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Clevan Thompson Named Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Savannah State University
- Google Search: Clevan Thompson head coach savannah state
- WSAV: Savannah State Men’s Basketball in Men’s NCAA Division II Tournament
- Wikipedia: Savannah State University
- Black Enterprise: Savannah State University SIAC Title
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Savannah State University
- Savannah Tribune: Savannah State Basketball Adds Six New Players
- Google News: Savannah State University basketball
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
