Deer Resigns as Koala Men's Basketball Coach

COLUMBIA, S.C. - Columbia College head men's basketball coach Jake Deer has resigned as the head coach of the Koala basketball program, Director of Athletics Glen Crawford announced Wednesday.

Deer will be pursuing future career opportunities moving forward.

Coach Deer was named the first-ever men's basketball coach in school history as he was tapped to start the program back in the spring of 2024. Deer laid the foundation for a successful program as his team went on to post an even .500 season in his first year picking up 14 wins during the 2024-25 season. He then helped lead the Koalas to their first-ever winning conference record in school history in 2025-26 going 10-9 as the team posted 13 wins overall to qualify as the #5 seed in the conference tournament. The season also featured a six-game win streak during conference play.

Deer's guidance saw three different players earn all-conference accolades while numerous players were named AAC Conference Players of the Week.

"I want to thank AD Crawford and President Dr. Dozier for the incredible opportunity to start and lead the Koalas Men's Basketball program," commented Coach Deer.  "The past two years have simply been amazing. Thank you to Coach Sweeney, Coach Bethea, and all the student athletes who have joined me in making this journey a special experience. As I depart, I can't say thank you enough. I wish the Koala program success as they move into a new era.  Thank you and GO KOALAS!"

"Coach Deer's dedication to the starting of our men's basketball program has been unwavering, and we are grateful for his leadership over the past two seasons," commented AD Crawford. "Columbia College is thankful for his hard work, commitment and accomplishments on and off the court during his two-plus years as a Koala. We wish him all the best moving forward as he pursues other career opportunities."

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