Connie Inman, Former Tennessee Tech Men’s Basketball & Tennis Coach, Dies at 91

Photo / Tennessee Tech Athletics

COOKEVILLE, TN - Connie Inman, a former Tennessee Tech men’s basketball and tennis coach known for building competitive teams and mentoring players long after the final buzzer, died Wednesday at age 91.

Inman coached the Golden Eagles’ men’s basketball program for seven seasons, from 1969 to 1976, producing a 79-94 record and a highlight run in 1975-76 when Tech finished third in the Ohio Valley Conference. His tenure also included three fourth-place OVC finishes in 1971-72, 1972-73, and 1974-75.

Beyond wins and standings, Inman helped shape careers and futures. Two of the standout players he coached—Wayne Pack and Frank Jones—later reached the professional ranks and were inducted into the Tennessee Tech Sports Hall of Fame. Pack, a standout from 1970-73, was drafted by the American Basketball Association’s San Diego Conquistadors in 1973, later playing with the Indiana Pacers and overseas. Jones, who played from 1972-76, was drafted by the NBA’s Buffalo Braves in 1976.

Inman also oversaw tennis at Tech in 1966 and 1967, guiding athletes during a period that included the development of future head coach and administrator Randy Smith.

For many former players, Inman’s influence extended far beyond X’s and O’s. As reflected in Tech alumni tributes, former Golden Eagles credited his guidance with lessons in leadership, teamwork, and trust.

Funeral arrangements will be handled through Hooper, Huddleston & Horner, though details have not been finalized.