shaped the lives of countless scholar-athletes
Big News from Florida Tech: Billy Mims, the Coach Legend, is Hanging Up the Cap
After an incredible 20 seasons leading the Panthers, Coach Billy Mims has decided it’s time for a new chapter. This is more than just a coaching change—it’s the closing of a beloved era.
So What’s Happening?
Coach Mims is stepping down as the head coach of the Florida Tech men’s basketball program. He leaves with an overall record of 273 wins and 279 losses (a .495 win percentage), but beyond the numbers, he’s the most successful coach the school has ever seen.
Why Does This Matter?
- He’s the 11th coach in program history but the first to notch 600 career wins (back in 2018).
- Inducted into the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame.
- Guided the Panthers to a Sunshine State Conference regular‑season championship in 2022 (the first outright title in school history).
- Competitive spirit: 17 SSC Tournaments, one NCAA Tournament appearance, and endless memorable moments.
Official Statement from the Athletics Department
“Today marks the end of an era as we bid farewell to Coach Billy Mims, who has been a cornerstone of the Florida Tech men’s basketball program for the past two decades,” said Director of Athletics Jamie Joss.
“His leadership has not only brought on‑court achievements, including our first outright Sunshine State Conference Championship, but has also shaped the lives of countless scholar‑athletes. His dedication to mentoring young men both on the court and in their futures is something we deeply appreciate. We wish him nothing but success as he takes this next step in his journey, and we will always consider him a valued member of the Panther family.”
What to Expect Next
Florida Tech will be on the hunt for a new head coach, but the legacy of Mims will live on—every game, every practice, every motivational pep talk in the locker room.
Takeaway
Coach Billy Mims may be hanging up the whistle, but his influence still roars across the campus. Here’s to the next chapter—may it be as thrilling as a buzzer‑beater!
Florida Tech’s Basketball Buzz: A 20‑Year Legacy & a Fresh Start
Back in the 2011‑12 season, Coach Mims led the Crimson and Gray to their first outright Straight‑Kick Championship (SSC) and secured the program’s third trip to the NCAA Tournament. The Panthers landed a 23‑7 record overall and 12‑4 in SSC play—those 23 wins still rank as the second most ever for the team.
Coaching Milestones Worthy of a Hall of Fame
- Coached 33 All‑SSC players
- Produced 3 SSC Defensive Players of the Year
- Mentored 2 SSC Freshmen of the Year
- Earned 2 All‑SSC Tournament honors
- Created 7 All‑South Region players
- Revealed 2 all‑district stars
- Shined as 1 All‑South Region Player of the Year
- Pushed 4 All‑Americans to the national stage
Coach Mims Speaks
“It’s hard to believe I’ve spent two decades at Florida Tech, but time truly flies when you’re having fun,” he quipped.
He paused, then added, “I’m incredibly grateful to former Athletic Director Bill Jurgens and President Anthony Catanese for bringing me here to lead the men’s basketball program.”
“Beyond the wins, I’m proud of the incredible young men who excelled on the court, in the classroom, and in their careers—ranging from professional basketball players to engineers, doctors, and authors,” he continued.
With a grin, Mims declared, “I truly feel that I am a #Panther4Life. No matter where the next chapter of my journey takes me from here, I will always look back on my time as a Panther with pride and joy.”
What’s Next for Florida Tech?
Florida Tech will immediately launch a nationwide search to find the next head coach for the men’s basketball program—an exciting new chapter for the Crimson and Gray.
Coach Billy Mims: A Legendary Mentor in Action
Coach Billy isn’t just another name on a coaching roster—he’s the guy who can make a kid’s brain spark brighter than a fireworks show. When he steps onto the court or stands in front of a classroom, people know they’re in for a lesson that’s as heart‑warming as it is hard‑learning.
What Makes Athletically Speaking Billy so Iconic?
- Field‑first experience: Past victories, future victories—every play tells a story.
- Coach‑by‑adventure: He’s rolled up on clinics worldwide, delivering tips that feel like confetti—weightless, fun, and full of color.
- Heart‑full volunteer: From soup kitchens to community gardens, he’s the one handing out smiles and sweat.
- Teacher‑titan: Whether it’s a one‑on‑one or a school‑wide pep talk, he connects, coaches, and compels.
How He Guides Young Amateurs at St. Mark’s Episcopal Academy
When Billy takes the stand with a group of eager youngsters, he turns complex drills into stories. “Imagine your back pockets are your own personal elevators,” he explains, “and every good pivot is a step up for your confidence.” Below are some of the “coach’s bite‑size” nuggets he shares:
- Start with the Basics: Like building Lego towers, you need a firm base—basic dribbling and footwork.
- Think Like a Pro: “Picture the court as a battlefield, but with less combat. Gladiators exist if you strategize,” Billy chuckles.
- Laugh at Mistakes: “Your biggest defeats often become your biggest lessons,” he reminds, with a grin that rings the bell.
- Build Camaraderie: He encourages kids to cheer each other on, turning teammates into “co‑cheaters” with a side of giggles.
- Celebrate (You!): Regardless of score, he insists every body move on the court deserves a standing ovation.
With a blend of wit, wisdom, and an unshakeable passion for sportsmanship, Coach Billy Mims keeps everyone’s spirits high and talents soaring. When he’s working with the young players at St. Mark’s, the entire school knows that the future is bright—thanks to a coach who never dims an eye or an effort.
Space Coast Daily News: Buckle Up for the Freshest Press
Hot off the press! It’s the future, folks – March 10, 2025 marks the grand debut of the Space Coast Daily News, proudly calling itself Brevard County’s best newspaper. Cue the confetti, because this isn’t your grandma’s paper.
Why This Matters
- Local Flavor – From the space launch pads to the pumpkin patches, every story is cut from the same patch of Floridian grins.
- 24/7 Updates – Just in case a rocket decides to float the next hour, we’ll have you in the know.
- Community Voice – Residents get to share their own tales. Big shout‑out to the neighborhood who rallied for the new community center.
First Day Highlights
The opening day was a roller‑coaster of tiny things that mattered:
- Launch Pad Lullabies – The morning’s first story was about a new satellite launch that capped off the day like a fireworks finale.
- Foodie Fest – Our food critic tried a local BBQ ribs dish that cried for a rewrite. “Too smoky, not enough ketchup?”
- Pet Parade – A canine dog‑walkers’ group turned a littering issue into a neighborhood rally, turning a problem into a paw‑fect community event.
Peeking Inside the Future
After the first day, the paper’s editors promised a “no‑censored, no‑pretend” vibe: honest reports, punchy headlines, and a dash of humor, because who really wants to read life without a giggle?
Get in the Groove
The Space Coast Daily News is not just a newspaper – it’s the daily dose of what’s happening, where, and why. Keep your eyes peeled for:
- Events that stay on the horizon – from block parties to art shows.
- Opinion pieces that challenge your viewpoint (don’t worry, we’ve got an editor for that).
- Local heroes that could become your next Instagram story.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy, or the digital version, and let the Space Coast Daily News show you that even the most ordinary days can feel like a blast‑off.
