HCC men’s coach Tommy DeSalme resigns

Tommy DeSalme tendered his resignation as coach of the Hutchinson Community College men’s basketball program. DeSalme coached the Blue Dragons for three seasons. CREDIT JOHN MESH

Hutchinson Community College is looking for a new men’s basketball coach.

Tommy DeSame tendered his resignation as the 15th HCC men’s coach after three seasons.

The Hutchinson CC Sports Information Department made the announcement of DeSalme’s resignation Monday morning.

DeSalme compiled a 75-27 record as Blue Dragons’ coach, including a 51-21 record in Jayhawk Conference games.

The Blue Dragons posted a 29-7 record in 2023-2024, including 1-1 record at the NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament March 24-30 at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

DeSalme, a native of Bartlesville, Okla., won 359 Jayhawk Conference wins as head coach at HCC, Cowley College and Independence Community College.

DeSalme also served as head coach at Kansas Wesleyan University (one season) and Sterling College (five seasons). His overall career coaching record in 23 seasons is 471 wins, 261 losses.

DeSalme led the Hutchinson Blue Dragons twice to at-large birds in the NJCAA Tournament, including 2024. HCC defeated USC Salkehatchie in the second round this year and lost to Connors State in the quarterfinals.

HCC had three All-Americans during DeSalme’s time as Blue Dragons’ coach: Angelo Stuart in 2022, Aaron Franklin in 2023 and Kamryn Thomas in 2024.

HCC had the No. 1 offense in the Jayhawk Conference in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and set the top three 3-point shooting marks in school history.

A nationwide search for the new Blue Dragon head coach will begin immediately, according to Blue Dragon Athletic Director Josh Gooch.

“A big thank-you goes out to Coach DeSalme for his three years of service to Hutchinson Community College,” Gooch said. “We wish Tommy all the best in his future endeavors.”