Clemson Assistant Lands Head Coaching Job

Billy Donlon to lead Eastern Michigan University basketball program

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:05pm

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Clemson men's basketball assistant coach Billy Donlon is set to become the new head coach at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Donlon has been an assistant at Clemson for the past three seasons.

Why it matters

This move represents a significant career advancement for Donlon, who will now have the opportunity to lead his own Division I basketball program. Donlon's departure is also a loss for the Clemson coaching staff, as he has been an integral part of the team's success in recent years.

The details

Donlon has agreed to take over the head coaching position at Eastern Michigan University, an NCAA Division I program located in Ypsilanti, Michigan. He has spent the past three seasons as an assistant coach at Clemson, helping the Tigers' men's basketball team achieve success on the court.

  • Donlon has been an assistant coach at Clemson for the past 3 seasons.
  • Donlon will be announced as the new head coach at Eastern Michigan University on March 17, 2026.

The players

Billy Donlon

An experienced assistant coach who is now set to become the new head coach at Eastern Michigan University.

Clemson University

The NCAA Division I school where Donlon has been an assistant coach for the past 3 seasons.

Eastern Michigan University

The NCAA Division I program located in Ypsilanti, Michigan, where Donlon will become the new head coach.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to welcome Billy Donlon as our new head coach. His experience and track record of success make him the perfect fit to lead our basketball program.”

— Heather Lyke, Eastern Michigan University Athletic Director

What’s next

Donlon will be formally introduced as Eastern Michigan University's new head coach at a press conference on March 20, 2026.

The takeaway

This move represents an important career advancement for assistant coach Billy Donlon, who will now have the opportunity to lead his own Division I basketball program at Eastern Michigan University.