Campus News - Farewell Coach

Farewell Coach

Donnie Butcher, who led the University of the Cumberlands men's basketball team to 17 NAIA tournament appearances, has retired after 21 seasons and 452 wins at the helm of the Patriots program.

"It is sad to see the Donnie Butcher era come to a close. Donnie has been a tremendous asset to Cumberlands for more than three decades," said Cumberlands President Larry Cockrum. "In addition to being a great coach, he has served as a role model and mentor for many student-athletes and younger coaches. He is highly regarded throughout the NAIA basketball community and has always operated his program with integrity. He will be greatly missed by our students and staff. I wish Donnie and his wife Bonnie all the best as they look forward to this new chapter in their lives."

Butcher closes out his career second in Patriots history with 452 wins, tallying a .680 win percentage, including a 180-116 record in Mid-South Conference play.

Coach Butcher ranks 12th in the NAIA in wins among active NAIA coaches as he led the Patriots to eight consecutive NAIA national tournament appearances. Under his guidance, the Patriots posted 18 20+ wins seasons, including capturing the MSC regular-season championship in 2003 in addition to winning the 2009 and 2012 Mid-South Conference Tournament.

Athletic Director Chris Kraftick said, "It's always tough to see a great coach step away. Donnie has dedicated his life to this institution and represented Patriots Basketball with the highest of integrity. As athletic director, I hate to see him retire, but as a friend, I'm excited he has reached that point in life where he can spend time with his family and enjoy doing something other than prepping for the next MSC battle. Our department wishes Donnie and Bonnie the best and would like to thank them for a wonderful 32 years in Williamsburg."