Winston-Salem State University fired its basketball coach just hours before the Rams were set to play their regular-season home game.
Corey Thompson will not be on the bench when the Rams host Shaw at 4 p.m. today after he was officially let go by the school, according to multiple reports.
School officials announced the decision Saturday afternoon in an email to alumni from interim athletics director Eric Burns, HBCU Gameday reported.
“During this transition, Assistant Coach Tony Jones will serve as Interim Head Men’s Basketball Coach,” Burns wrote. “Coach Jones brings valuable experience, a deep understanding of our program, and a strong commitment to the development and success of our student-athletes.”
Burns added that the university will begin an immediate search for Thompson’s permanent replacement.
Thompson’s last game as Rams coach was a 70-69 loss versus Claflin on Thursday night.
Thompson was in his second season leading his alma mater. He signed a four-year contract in July 2024 worth $125,000 annually, which ran through July 2028. The move leaves two years remaining on his deal, according to the Winston-Salem Journal.
Thompson replaced longtime coach Cleo Hill Jr., who had led the Rams to two CIAA championships during his tenure at the program.
WSSU is 7-15 overall and 2-11 in the CIAA this season. The Rams have gone 11-37 and 4-25 in the CIAA under Thompson.
