Centre College names Gavin Root permanent basketball coach

Root guided the Colonels to a successful season as interim head coach.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:46pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented college basketball game, with sharp planes of navy, crimson, and gold representing the energy and movement of the sport.The new permanent head coach of Centre College basketball will bring a fresh, dynamic approach to leading the team.Danville Today

Gavin Root has been named the permanent head coach of the Centre College basketball team after serving as the interim head coach for the 2025-26 season. Root led the Colonels to a successful season, earning him the full-time position.

Why it matters

Coaching stability is crucial for a college basketball program, and Root's promotion provides continuity for the Centre College team after a strong interim season. His appointment signals the school's confidence in his ability to lead the program going forward.

The details

Root took over as interim head coach prior to the 2025-26 season and guided the Colonels to a successful campaign. His performance during that time earned him the permanent head coaching job, which he was officially awarded on Monday.

  • Root served as interim head coach during the 2025-26 season.
  • Root was named the permanent head coach on March 29, 2026.

The players

Gavin Root

The new permanent head coach of the Centre College basketball team, having previously served as the interim head coach.

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What they’re saying

“I felt supported the entire season whether that's by our athletic director or various coaches around the office. These guys stayed through what we had.”

— Gavin Root, Head Coach

What’s next

Root will now begin preparing the team for the upcoming 2026-27 season as the permanent head coach.

The takeaway

Root's promotion provides stability and continuity for the Centre College basketball program after a successful interim season, signaling the school's confidence in his ability to lead the team going forward.