Two years ago, Matt Lynch embarked on a journey that would not only test his skills as a college basketball coach but also his courage and authenticity as an individual. At that time, Lynch had just begun to recruit players for a basketball program at the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie, which was undergoing a complete rebuild. Fast forward two years, and Lynch has not only proven his coaching prowess but also made history as a trailblazer in men’s college basketball.
Betting on Himself
"I want to prove that Matt Lynch as a person can coach basketball," Lynch confidently expressed at the outset of his coaching career. He embraced the opportunity at Salkehatchie as a chance to make his mark as a first-year head coach. With grit and determination, Lynch led his teams to achieve 44 victories over two seasons, securing a conference title in his inaugural year and earning the title of Coach of the Year in his conference in the subsequent season.
What sets Lynch apart is not just his coaching success but his courage to be open about his identity. As the only openly gay head coach in men’s college basketball, Lynch acknowledges this distinction but chooses not to let it define him. "I don’t really feel any pressure from being one of the first out men’s basketball coaches," he shared. "I’m just Matt Lynch. That’s just who I am as a person."
Authenticity Over Adversity
Coming out publicly in 2020 was a significant step for Lynch, who was then between jobs but resolute in his decision to live authentically. This decision and his subsequent journey at Salkehatchie garnered national attention, including a feature in a major publication that highlighted his transformative impact on a struggling program.
Lynch’s approach to rebuilding the basketball program was all-encompassing. From securing funding and recruiting talent to managing the finer details like renovating the locker room, he poured his heart into the program. "The thing I love most about coaching is the ability to build relationships," Lynch emphasized. His dedication to his players goes beyond the court, as he humorously notes, "I’m coming to the wedding, whether I’m invited or not."
Leading by Example
In preseason meetings, Lynch was candid with his team about his identity, after which the focus seamlessly shifted to basketball's strategic aspects. "I was very blessed to not have my being gay come up very often last year," Lynch remarked. "I hope to be judged by my character and my ability to lead a group of young men towards a collective goal." He aspires for a future where his orientation becomes a non-issue, allowing him to just be "an old ball coach."
Five years after coming out, Lynch views being open about his identity as an ongoing journey. "Being out means being my true authentic self," he explained. While initially thinking coming out was a one-time event, he realized it’s an everyday process. "Visibility is important," Lynch stated, highlighting the importance of representation for younger athletes.
Through his openness and success, Lynch hopes to inspire others in sports to embrace who they are, proving there’s space for everyone to thrive. His story is a testament to the power of authenticity in overcoming adversity and achieving success.
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