Truett McConnell University launches fundraising campaign to honor legendary coach Colby Tilley

Colby Tilley

CLEVELAND, Ga. — Truett McConnell University proudly announces the launch of a special fundraising campaign to honor one of the most accomplished coaches in TMU history, Coach Colby Tilley. The campaign seeks to raise a minimum of $150,000 to establish an endowed scholarship fund for TMU Women’s Basketball and to officially rename the university’s competitive basketball court as Colby Tilley Court.

Coach Tilley, a 2018 inductee into the TMU Athletics Hall of Fame, led the Lady Bears from 1976–1985 to national prominence, compiling an extraordinary 234-46 (.836) record. Under his leadership, TMU Women’s Basketball claimed five consecutive Georgia State Championships, multiple Region XVII titles, and in 1980, brought home the National Championship with an astounding 36-2 season.

To commemorate his legacy and lifelong impact on the game, TMU invites former players, alumni, friends, and fans to contribute to this campaign. Your support will not only honor Coach Tilley’s legacy but also help future generations of student-athletes achieve their dreams through scholarships.

On Friday, February 13th, 2026, TMU will host a celebration dinner prior to the next day’s final home women’s basketball game of the season. At this time, the TMU women’s basketball family will celebrate and honor Coach Tilley.

Those interested in supporting the Colby Tilley Court Campaign may:

• Donate to the campaign
• Purchase tickets to the celebration dinner
• Sponsor the dinner

Visit https://standingontruth.truett.edu/event/colby-tilley-court/e701184 to participate and learn more.

Coach Tilley’s legacy extends beyond TMU. After leaving Truett-McConnell, he launched the women’s basketball program at Auburn University at Montgomery (218-74 record), then went on to Kennesaw State University, where he became the all-time winningest coach in school history with 290 wins over 17 seasons. His impact has been recognized with inductions into the halls of fame at TMU, AUM, and KSU.

Let’s come together to celebrate a coach, mentor, and leader whose legacy still inspires. Help us make Colby Tilley Court a lasting tribute.