Blake Smart, the head men's golf coach at the University of Memphis, has promoted Isaiah Jackson from assistant coach to associate head coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Smart praised Jackson's commitment to the university and the golf program, emphasizing his passion for development. Jackson, who returned to Memphis in 2023 after coaching at Bowling Green, expressed excitement for his new role and commitment to athlete improvement. Since joining Memphis, he has contributed to three tournament victories and a NCAA Championship appearance. Jackson, a former standout with record-breaking performance, is poised to further elevate the program.

By the Numbers
  • Jackson has helped guide the Tigers to three tournament victories, including two last season.
  • He has contributed to 28 top-10 finishes during his coaching tenure.
Yes, But

While Jackson's promotion is celebrated, questions may arise about continuity and team dynamics as the program transitions under his increased leadership, especially after a successful previous season.

State of Play
  • Jackson's promotion signals a strategic move to leverage his deep understanding of the program and commitment to collegiate golf.
  • The transition comes after the Tigers' strong performance, including an NCAA Championship appearance, raising expectations going forward.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Jackson is expected to continue raising the competitive level of the team, potentially attracting more talent and improving results in upcoming seasons as he develops his coaching philosophy further.

Bottom Line

The promotion of Isaiah Jackson is a strategic enhancement for the University of Memphis men's golf team, reaffirming a commitment to excellence while navigating the challenges of an evolving coaching landscape.