The University of the Virgin Islands has named Kevin Sheppard as interim head coach of its men’s basketball program, the university’s athletic department announced Thursday.
Sheppard has 20 years of coaching, playing, and training experience. As a former collegiate Division 1 and professional player, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the university, according to the press release.
“Words cannot accurately express how excited I am for Coach Sheppard to lead the men’s basketball program here at UVI,” said Director of Athletics Karen Carty. “His decades of experience in all aspects of basketball and his local connection make him a perfect fit to help us achieve our goals. I know he will hit the ground running and get the program back to the high levels of success that the Buccaneers have historically enjoyed.”
Sheppard played basketball at Jacksonville University and went on to have a professional career in various countries, including Spain, Poland, Israel, Australia, China, Argentina, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico. He was featured in the documentary “The Iran Job” for his choice to play for a professional team in Iran. Sheppard also captained the Virgin Islands national basketball team from 2001 to 2014, securing multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals while representing the Territory, the press release stated.
“Tigan” or “Coach T,” as he is known by many, started his coaching career in 2011 at his alma mater, the St. Croix Educational Complex. Throughout his time in this role, he guided the Barracudas to seven district titles, all while coaching the Virgin Islands U18 Junior National team. In 2018, he was promoted to the senior men’s national team coaching staff and continues to serve in that capacity. Sheppard also gained coaching experience in the Puerto Rican professional basketball league, the “Baloncesto Superior National,” during a two-year stint with the Guaynabo Mets, the release stated.
“I am excited about the opportunity to guide these student-athletes in their development both on and off the court, mentally, physically, and emotionally,” said Sheppard. “From our approach to nutrition, training, and academic success, I am committed to creating a winning culture that instills pride whenever the Buccaneers are mentioned.”
Sheppard contributes to the community through his non-profit basketball program, VI Elites, which aims to improve basketball skills and elevate the sport. Through this program, Sheppard has shared his basketball expertise and provided opportunities for young Virgin Islands athletes, the release stated.
“I am very excited about the new challenge, and I am prepared to not only make UVI a destination for talent from abroad but also create a solid pipeline for our local athletes to have a place to compete collegiately,” Sheppard concluded.
