Virgin Islander Kevin Sheppard has been appointed interim head coach of the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) Buccaneers men’s basketball program. With over 20 years of coaching, playing, and training experience, the former professional basketball player brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the university.
“Words cannot accurately express how excited I am for Coach Sheppard to lead the men’s basketball program here at UVI,” said Director of Athletics Dr. Karen Carty. “His decades of experience in all aspects of basketball and his local connection make him a perfect fit to help us achieve our goals. I know he will hit the ground running and get the program back the high levels of success that the Buccaneers have historically enjoyed.”
"I am excited about the opportunity to guide these student-athletes in their development both on and off the court, mentally, physically, and emotionally," said Sheppard. "From our approach to nutrition, training, and academic success, I am committed to creating a winning culture that instills pride whenever the Buccaneers are mentioned."
“Know as Tigan or Coach T by many”, Sheppard began his coaching career in 2011 at
his Alma mater, the St. Croix Educational Complex. During his tenure, he led the Barracudas
to seven district titles while also coaching the Virgin Islands U18 Junior National
team. In 2016, he was elevated to the senior men's national team coaching staff and
continues to serve in that role. Sheppard also gained coaching experience in the Puerto
Rican professional basketball league, the "Baloncesto Superior Nacional," during a
two-year stint with the Guaynabo Mets.
Professionally, Sheppard has competed on the international stage in various countries,
including Spain, Poland, Israel, Australia, China, Argentina, Venezuela, and Puerto
Rico. He was the subject of the documentary "The Iran Job" for his decision to play
for a professional team in Iran. Sheppard also led the Virgin Islands National basketball
team serving as captain from 2001 to 2014, winning multiple gold, silver, and bronze
medals while representing the territory.
Sheppard's commitment to the fundamentals and core principles of competitive basketball led to his creation of the "VI Elites" basketball program, a non-profit organization aimed at enhancing skills and elevating the level of basketball in his community. Sheppard has shared his basketball expertise through this program and facilitated exposure opportunities for young athletes from his hometown. The St. Croix native has successfully coached the travel ball organization and won several prestigious tournaments on the U.S. Mainland.
“I am very excited about the new challenge, and I am prepared to not only make UVI a destination for talent from abroad but also create a solid pipeline for our local athletes to have a place to compete collegiately,” said Sheppard.
About UVI Athletics
The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and a member of the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC), formerly the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC). Entering the 2024-25 season, the Buccaneers will begin their 18th season of athletic competition. As the only Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in the Caribbean, UVI currently sponsors six sports, including men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s basketball, and men’s and women’s outdoor track and field. For more information on UVI Athletics, visit UVIAthletics.com.
