By PATRICK MEEHAN, Centenary Sports Information Director
Centenary is conducting a national search for a new men’s basketball coach following last week’s resignation of Chris Dorsey after eight seasons leading the Gents.
Dorsey’s departure “to pursue other opportunities” was announced last Thursday on the gocentenary.com website by the coach and Gents’ athletics director David Orr. He said he hopes to have a new coach hired “early this summer” and said the search committee is already reviewing candidates.
Dorsey had seven straight winning seasons with the Gents until this winter, the first time in his tenure Centenary did not reach the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Tournament.
The 2023-24 season was the high point, with Centenary winning the SCAC Tournament in the Gold Dome and reaching the NCAA Division III Tournament to cap a 17-win season, the second straight for the program.
Dorsey finished his Centenary run with an overall 108-91 record and a nifty 69-53 mark in SCAC play. His teams were noted for tough defense and running an efficient Princeton-style offense that earned Dorsey national respect.
“I had the privilege to be part of coach Dorsey’s hiring committee here at Centenary and continued to be impressed with his leadership for Centenary men’s basketball,” said Orr. “Chris is a great coach and an even greater man.
“Chris established Centenary men’s basketball as a SCAC Championship contender each year. I am grateful for working with Chris and the example he set. I couldn’t root more for this great person.”
Dorsey departed expressing pride and appreciation for Centenary.
“Centenary has been more than just a place to coach — it’s been a community that welcomed my family and supported our vision from Day 1,” said Dorsey. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible colleagues, mentors, and student-athletes who all played a role in what we built. I’m proud of what we achieved, both on and off the court, and I leave with deep gratitude for everyone who made these eight years meaningful.
“To my players — thank you! Thank you for playing hard, for trusting me, and for helping transform Centenary men’s basketball into something we can all be proud of. Coaching here has shaped me deeply, both professionally and personally, and I’ll carry those memories with me for life. I’ve learned the power of compassion and how much can be accomplished when people believe in something bigger than themselves,” he said.
ATHLETICS PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCED: Centenary College Athletics is proud to announce a new partnership with Rice & Kendig, naming the local law firm the Official Law Firm of Centenary Athletics. This recognition follows a major gift to the College’s athletics booster club, the C Club.
The connection between Rice & Kendig and Centenary College is deeply rooted. One of the firm’s partners, Marshall Rice, is a 2000 graduate of Centenary. His father, Carl Rice, who founded the firm, is also a proud Centenary alumnus, a member of the Class of 1967. Their enduring support of the institution reflects a multigenerational commitment to Centenary’s mission and values.
“As a proud graduate of Centenary’s Class of 2000, I’m excited to support the Centenary C Club and our growing athletics program,” said Marshall Rice. “The addition of the football team is a fantastic step forward, and I’ve truly enjoyed being part of the renewed energy and school spirit it’s brought to our community.”
Marshall’s law partner, Bill Kendig, brings over 30 years of experience as a respected trial attorney. Known for his disciplined case preparation and client-first approach, Kendig is a faith-driven leader in the legal community and a strong advocate for justice and integrity.
“We’re excited to officially welcome Rice & Kendig into the Centenary Athletics family,” said Orr. “The firm’s commitment to our community and to Centenary is evident, and their support will have a meaningful impact on the experience of our student-athletes.”
This partnership exemplifies the College’s mission to foster strong, mutually beneficial relationships with alumni and community leaders who are committed to shaping a better future for student-athletes.
Contact Patrick at pmeehan@centenary.edu