Howard Payne University Welcomes Rodney Gee as New Head Women’s Basketball Coach
Howard Payne University has officially announced the appointment of Rodney Gee as the head coach for its women’s basketball team. This decision is poised to enhance the department’s commitment to the growth and success of its women’s sports programs.
Extensive Coaching Experience
Rodney Gee brings with him an impressive 33 years of coaching experience, having accumulated over 600 wins throughout his career. Prior to taking on this collegiate role, he enjoyed a remarkable tenure at Lorena High School in Texas, where he spent the last 14 seasons as the Head Girls Basketball Coach and Assistant Athletics Director.
Achievements at Lorena High School
During his time at Lorena, Coach Gee led the team to significant victories, clinching seven District Championships from 2011 to 2024, along with multiple Bi-District, Area, and Regional titles. Notably, he guided the team to the State Semi-Finals in 2012, showcasing his ability to lead teams to great heights.
A Brief Tenure in Collegiate Coaching
Coach Gee also had a brief stint as the Women’s Assistant Basketball Coach at Cisco College in the 1996-1997 season. His coaching journey also includes positions in several Texas high schools, including Eastland and Levelland, where he demonstrated his knack for building winning programs.
Recognition and Honors
Throughout his career, Gee has been recognized multiple times as District Coach of the Year, winning this honor six times from 2002 to 2022. Additionally, he received the Centex Coach of the Year award in 2012 and has been selected as an All-Star game coach on five occasions. In 2011, he was highlighted as the recipient of the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches Class 3-A Dean Weese Outstanding Coach Award.
Leadership Roles and Educational Background
Beyond his coaching accolades, Coach Gee has contributed to the broader basketball community by serving as the President of the Texas Girls Coaches Association. He is also actively involved with the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches and the Texas Basketball Championships board. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas, obtained in 1991.
Personal Background
Rodney Gee is married to Rachelle, and they share a family that includes three adult children: Alexa, Abbie, and Gage. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the women’s basketball program at Howard Payne, stating, “I am deeply grateful to Dr. Cory Hines and Dr. Nate Penland for their belief in me and the vision we share for this program. My family and I are excited to join the Howard Payne community.”
Looking Ahead
The athletic department is optimistic that Coach Gee’s wealth of experience and fervent passion for basketball will significantly benefit the women’s basketball program as it aims for further achievements in the future.
