William Carey’s Steve Knight Retires After 44 Seasons as Basketball Coach
Hattiesburg, Miss. — Steve Knight, the all-time winningest college basketball coach in Mississippi, announced his retirement Monday after 44 seasons at William Carey University. Knight’s career ranks among the most successful in college basketball history, with 819 wins.
Knight was named head coach of the Crusaders in 1982. In his second season, he led the team to its first Gulf Coast Athletic Conference championship. William Carey won five more GCAC titles under his leadership, and the team participated in the NAIA National Tournament seven times during that span.
In 1987, Knight was also named William Carey’s athletic director, a role he held for 30 years until 2016. During his tenure, the university expanded its athletic offerings from five to 17 sports. He was named conference Athletic Director of the Year four times and NAIA Southeast Athletic Director of the Year in 2005-06. Knight also served as president of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference twice.
Despite his administrative duties, Knight continued to achieve success on the court. The Crusaders joined the Southern States Athletic Conference in 2010, and Knight’s teams reached the NAIA tournament six times between 2010 and 2019. Notably, in 2014, his team set a school record with 28 wins and earned him NAIA National Coach of the Year honors.
In 2019, William Carey advanced to the NAIA Fab Four for the first time in school history. This season, the team tied its school record with 28 wins, won the SSAC championship, and returned to the national tournament. Knight’s 44-year coaching career concludes with 819 wins, placing him eighth in NAIA history.
William Carey President Ben Burnett praised Knight’s contributions, highlighting his impact on generations of student-athletes. Knight is also a member of the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, the University of Southern Mississippi Hall of Fame, and other honors.
“Leaving a program better than I found it has always been the goal,” Knight said. “I am grateful for the support of my players, staff, and family. It’s been a remarkable ride.”
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