Denmark Technical College welcomes back record-breaking coach Javon Gilliard to lead women’s basketball program
December 11, 2024
Denmark Technical College had announced the return of Javon Gilliard as the head coach of the women’s basketball team. A celebrated figure in Denmark Technical College’s athletic history, Coach Gilliard is a member of the inaugural class of the Denmark Technical College Athletics Hall of Fame and remains the winningest coach in the history of the women’s basketball program.
During his previous tenure from 2011 to 2017, Coach Gilliard transformed the Panthers into a powerhouse program. He guided the team to its first winning record, first Region 10 Conference Championship and first NJCAA Division I National Tournament appearance. Over six seasons, his leadership brought home four Region 10 Conference Championships, four Region 10 Tournament titles and numerous individual accolades for his players, including two All-American honors and multiple Player of the Year titles.
His players consistently achieved excellence, at times leading the nation in score, steals and three-point percentage. Gilliard also holds the distinction of being the only women’s basketball coach in Denmark Tech history to surpass 100 wins.
“We are elated to welcome Coach Gilliard back to Denmark Tech. His accomplishments are unparalleled and his passion for developing student-athletes both on and off the court aligns perfectly with our mission to engage, educate and empower. We are confident that this new chapter will build on the extraordinary legacy he created and inspire even greater success for our women’s basketball program,” said Willie L. Todd Jr., Ph.D., president and CEO of Denmark Technical College.
Beyond Denmark Tech, Gilliard has an impressive coaching resume, including positions at Columbia International University, Allen University and Bennett College as well as Allendale-Fairfax High School and Fort Dorchester High School. He has served as the Director of Scouting for USA College Network, where he focused on international high school basketball talent, and as Director at the YWCA in Greensboro, North Carolina.
“Denmark Technical College holds a special place in my heart. This program has always been about more than just basketball. It’s about fostering excellence and pride in our student-athletes. I am honored to return and look forward to building on the rich legacy we’ve created together,” said Gilliard.
About Denmark Technical College
Denmark Technical College is a two-year HBCU in rural Bamberg County, South Carolina. With a mission to engage, educate and empower students, Denmark Tech serves over 1000 enthusiastic learners, focusing on technical career training, associate degrees and a four-year college transfer program. Additional information about Denmark Tech can be found at www.denmarktech.edu.
