He continues to be a polarizing figure. While known for his tireless work ethic, his ability to recruit and his knack for turning around struggling programs, he also has a track record of controversies, departures and ongoing struggles with maintaining stability.
Gillespie is back in the news, this time as the head coach of Tarleton State. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, “Sources: Tarleton State coach Billy Gillispie has been placed on temporary administrative leave as the university’s system investigates a complaint. Associate head coach Glynn Cyprien has taken over as acting head coach.”
Sources: Tarleton State coach Billy Gillispie has been placed on temporary administrative leave as the university’s system investigates a complaint. Associate head coach Glynn Cyprien has taken over as acting head coach. pic.twitter.com/M4blHwwfSM
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) October 3, 2025
This casts doubt about the future of Gillispie in college basketball. Details on the 65-year-old head coach are not clear, but being placed on leave highlights the volatility of his career. For a coach who has been forced out of multiple high-profile jobs, this is another setback for the Tarleton State boss.
A Redemption Attempt at Tarleton State
Gillispie has been with the program in Stephenville Texas since 2010. He helped guide Tarleton through its transition into a Division I program. The move was seen by many as a form of redemption for the head coach. He brought in talent and helped the Texans become competitive in the WAC. Even as the team gained respect, questions about off-court issues and player treatment never seemed far away.
From UTEP to Texas A&M Success
Before arriving at Tarleton State, Gillispie held multiple assistant positions. His first head coaching job came at UTEP in 2002. He quickly turned the Miners around and earned an NCAA Tournament berth in 2004. That success launched him to Texas A&M, where he revived the Aggies program. Under his guidance, Texas A and M reached the Sweet 16 in 2007 and became a national contender.
The Kentucky Experiment Gone Wrong
After his time in College Station, Gillispie landed one of the top jobs in college basketball as head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats. The expectations in Lexington were sky high, and Gillispie was never able to meet them. His tenure was marked by conflicts and poor results in SEC play. After just two seasons, he was fired in 2009.
Texas Tech Troubles and Another Fall
Gillispie’s next chance came at Texas Tech in 2011. It ended abruptly a year later when allegations of player mistreatment surfaced. He resigned in 2012, citing health issues, and once again his coaching career was thrown into chaos.
Uncertain Future Once Again
Now, with his administrative leave at Tarleton State, Gillispie finds himself at another crossroads. While many in the sport hope for the best for him personally, it is unclear if his career in college basketball has reached its final chapter.