Leonard Hamilton is a distinguished American basketball coach known for his significant contributions to collegiate and professional basketball. Born on August 4, 1948, in Gastonia, North Carolina, Hamilton’s career spans over five decades, during which he has held various coaching positions, including head coach roles at Oklahoma State University, the University of Miami, the NBA’s Washington Wizards, and most notably, Florida State University (FSU).
At FSU, Hamilton’s tenure from 2002 to 2025 was marked by remarkable achievements. His leadership led the Seminoles to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including Elite Eight and Sweet 16 runs, and secured the program’s first Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Tournament title in 2012, followed by an ACC regular-season championship in 2020. In recognition of his exceptional coaching, Hamilton was honored as the ACC Coach of the Year three times and received national accolades such as the Clarence “Big House” Gaines National Coach of the Year award in 2018.
On March 8, 2025, Hamilton coached his final game at FSU, where the Seminoles defeated SMU 76-69 in his last home game at the Donald L. Tucker Center. However, in the opening round of the 2025 ACC Tournament, Florida State fell to Syracuse 66-62, concluding Hamilton’s illustrious career with a record of 460-296, including 211-191 in conference play.
Hamilton’s impact extended beyond the court; he was instrumental in integrating the University of Kentucky’s basketball program during his tenure as an assistant coach from 1974 to 1986, helping to recruit and develop players who would become integral to the team’s success.
Throughout his career, Hamilton mentored numerous players who went on to achieve professional success, including NBA stars such as Al Thornton, Toney Douglas, and Michael Snaer. His legacy is celebrated not only for his coaching accomplishments but also for his role in shaping the lives and careers of his players.
In recognition of his profound influence on college basketball, Hamilton was awarded the Ben Jobe Award in 2021, honoring the top minority coach in Division I men’s basketball.