By Annabella Ramirez

4/3/2025

A national search for a new head coach will begin immediately.

MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich.—Zyzelewski Family Vice President/Director of Athletics Amy Folan and Central Michigan Athletics have announced a change in leadership for its men’s basketball program. Tony Barbee will not return as head coach and a national search for the program’s next head coach begins immediately.

“At this time, I have determined that we need to go in a different direction with the leadership of our men’s basketball program,” Folan said. “I want to thank Tony for his dedication and service during his last four years in Mount Pleasant. We wish him the best in his future endeavors.

“I am confident that we will attract a high-caliber candidate pool during our head coaching search. This is a tremendous opportunity, and we know that our community will rally behind our next Chippewa men’s basketball coach.”

In his four years as Central Michigan’s head coach, Barbee compiled a 49-75 overall record and 30-42 record in MAC play. He guided two Chippewa squads to MAC Tournament berths in both 2021-22 and 2023-24. His most successful year was in 2023-24 when he led Central Michigan to an 18-14 overall record and fourth place finish in league play with a 12-6 record. His final 2024-25 squad finished 14-17 overall and 7-11 in MAC play and did not advance to the MAC Tournament.

Assistant Coach Scott Cherry will lead the program in the interim until a new head coach is appointed.