ABILENE, TX - McMurry University has named the basketball court in the Phillips Family Student Activities Center Sam Nichols Court in honor of Coach Sam Nichols '72, the all-time winningest coach in McMurry women's basketball history.
The naming recognizes Nichols' 12 years as McMurry's head women's basketball coach from 1995 to 2007 – a transformative era that elevated the University's women's basketball program to national prominence. During his tenure, Nichols guided the McMurry Indians, as the team was then known, to 199 victories, three NCAA Tournament appearances, and a Sweet Sixteen run in 2000, establishing one of the most successful periods in program history. (McMurry transitioned to the War Hawks mascot in 2011.)
"Coach Nichols embodies the best of McMurry – excellence, character, and a genuine commitment to others," said Kathi Edwards, chair of the McMurry University Board of Trustees (2022–2025), who made the court naming possible. "This honor celebrates not only his success on the court but also the positive and enduring influence he has had on our students, our alumni, and the Abilene community."
The court is also dedicated in memory of C. Lee Smith '78, Edwards' father and Coach Nichols' first cousin, symbolizing the deep family and McMurry ties that continue to shape the University's story. Over his 12 seasons, Nichols coached four All-Americans, led teams to multiple ASC West Division titles, and guided his student-athletes to a 100% graduation rate for players who completed four years in the program. He was named ASC West Coach of the Year in 2006 and inducted into the McMurry Athletic Hall of Honor in 2017, along with his 1999–2000, 2005–2006, and 2006–2007 teams.
Following his coaching career, Nichols continued to serve the Abilene community as chief meteorologist at KTAB-TV and founded Basketball Smiles, the largest free basketball camp program in the Caribbean, which has provided sports instruction, life skills, and encouragement to more than
12,000 underserved youth.
"Coach Nichols' impact extends far beyond wins and championships," said Athletics Director Larry Dockery. "He shaped lives, built community, and demonstrated what it means to serve with heart. Naming Sam Nichols Court ensures his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of War Hawks."
In addition to the court naming, Nichols is set to be inducted into the McMurry Legends Corner in 2026, further honoring his distinguished contributions to the University and to the game of basketball. The Legends Corner recognizes coaches whose influence extends beyond wins and losses – leaders who have shaped McMurry's history through their mentorship, character, and lasting impact on generations of scholar-athletes.
The University will celebrate these honors during the Sam Nichols Court Dedication and Legends Corner recognition events on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2026. Alumni, current and former players, and community members are invited to join McMurry in honoring Coach Nichols and his legacy.
