Winston-Salem State has found its next leader on the sidelines, and he brings both a championship pedigree and a personal connection to the role.
Jay Butler, a Virginia Union alum who spent the past 11 seasons building his alma mater into a CIAA powerhouse, was officially introduced as the new head coach of the Rams men’s basketball program.
Butler arrives in Winston-Salem after earning CIAA Coach of the Year honors and National Association of Basketball Coaches Atlantic Region Co-Coach of the Year recognition during his tenure.
For Butler, the decision to leave Virginia Union was not made lightly.
“It took a special place like WSSU for me to leave a place that means so much to me,” Butler said. “This is one of the top jobs in the CIAA, and I’m blessed for this opportunity.”
Butler to WSSU is a family affair
The move carries added significance for Butler and his family. His daughter, Lauren, has already committed to attend Winston-Salem State, making the transition feel even more personal.
“She is my why,” Butler said. “She committed here, and I was ecstatic about that.”
Butler takes over a program steeped in tradition and rich with history, and he made it clear he intends to honor that legacy while building toward sustained success. He pointed to the influence of Rams legends Clarence “Big House” Gaines, Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, and Cleo Hill as a guiding force.
“I want to continue that legacy and see the next pro come from here,” Butler said. “We want to win 20 games every year.”
Expectations are to compete for championships
While winning remains a priority, Butler emphasized a broader mission centered on developing student-athletes beyond basketball.
“We want to build young men,” he said. “I am committed to player development on and off the court, so they are prepared for life after basketball.”
He also stressed the importance of embracing the HBCU experience and strengthening ties within the Winston-Salem community.
“We will be invested in the community and committed to putting a product on the floor that you all will be proud of,” Butler said.
University officials believe Butler’s leadership will further elevate WSSU’s presence both on the court and in the community.
With a proven track record, a deep respect for tradition, and a vision for the future, Butler now takes the reins with the expectation of returning Rams basketball to championship form.
