David Smith has been named the head men’s basketball coach at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, continuing his efforts to build a program grounded in accountability, communication and a shared vision for success.
Smith joined the University in 2024 as an assistant coach before officially assuming the head coaching position. For Smith, the opportunity represents a commitment to the University and the South San Antonio community.
“This is where I want to be,” Smith said. “I don’t look at it as a steppingstone. I don’t want to be anywhere else.”
Smith said he appreciates the confidence University leadership has placed in him and looks forward to building a program that makes a lasting impact beyond the basketball court.
His coaching philosophy is shaped by more than 23 years of service in the U.S. Army, where he held several senior-level positions, including logistics plans officer and deputy commander. During his military career, Smith also served as head coach of the Men’s All-Army Basketball Team for four years, leading six teams in international competition.
Following his military service, Smith continued his coaching career at the collegiate level. He spent nearly six years as an assistant coach at Trinity University and four years at Our Lady of the Lake University before joining A&M-San Antonio.
His background informs a leadership style centered on preparation, structure and collective responsibility. Assistant coach Zach Adair said their shared military experience has helped establish a strong working relationship.
“We have the same style of leadership,” Adair said. “I think we’re going to be a great duo with how we think and how we approach leadership and what’s important.”
The Jaguars opened their home schedule with a win over Bismarck State College on Saturday, Oct. 24, giving Smith his first victory of the season. While the result marked an early milestone, Smith said the performance also offered a glimpse of the team’s potential and areas for continued improvement.
“We showed at times what we’re capable of being,” Smith said. “We've got a goal at the end of the year. This is just one little step in it.”
Smith emphasized that the team’s progress will depend on its ability to trust its preparation, remain accountable and prioritize the collective goals of the program.
Adair said the home opener established an early standard for the group as the Jaguars work to build momentum.
“We’re trying to come out and set the tone for our first home opener and really show we’re a different team,” Adair said.
Smith holds a master’s degree in logistics management from the Florida Institute of Technology and a bachelor’s degree in justice administration from Hawaii Pacific University. As he leads the Jaguars forward, he aims to build a program that reflects his commitment to teamwork and contributes to the University’s growing presence in South San Antonio.