WINSTON-SALEM, NC (April 9, 2026) – Winston-Salem State University has named Lester "Jay" Butler head men's basketball coach. Following a national coaching search, Butler was selected from a competitive pool of candidates to lead the Rams into their next era of excellence.

Butler brings more than two decades of collegiate coaching experience, including 20 years as a head coach at the NCAA Division II level, with a proven record of championship success, player development and academic achievement. Butler's experience in the CIAA and Division II landscape positions him to build on WSSU's competitive tradition while advancing student-athlete success on and off the court.

Most recently, Butler served as head men's basketball coach at Virginia Union University, where he led the program to multiple conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances during his 11-year tenure. His career includes a 372-239 record, nine 20-win seasons and eight NCAA Division II tournament appearances.

This year, Butler was named the CIAA Coach of the Year for the third time, and his team earned the CIAA Team High Academic Award. In 2023, he was named HBCU Jerry Johnson NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year and NCAA Atlantic Region Co-Coach of the Year. He is a graduate of VUU with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice.

"Jay Butler brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of success," said Eric Burns, interim director of athletics. "Throughout this national search, we sought a leader who could elevate our program competitively while developing young men both in competition and in life. Coach Butler embodies those qualities, and we are excited to welcome him to Ram Nation."

As head coach, Butler will oversee all aspects of the men's basketball program, including recruiting, player development, academic progress, scheduling and program operations.

"I am honored to join Winston-Salem State University and lead this historic program," Butler said. "WSSU has a proud tradition, passionate supporters and a strong commitment to student success. I look forward to building a championship culture that reflects the values of this university and prepares our student-athletes for success on and off the court. I am deeply aware of the legacy that has been built here, and I am committed to honoring that tradition while building something this community is proud of for years to come."

Chancellor Bonita J. Brown said Butler's appointment reflects the university's continued investment in athletics as a key component of the student experience and institutional visibility.
"Winston-Salem State University is committed to excellence in all areas, including athletics," Brown said. "Coach Butler's experience, leadership and commitment to student-athlete development make him an outstanding choice to lead our men's basketball program. We are excited about the future of Rams basketball under his leadership."

About Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem State University fosters the creative thinking, analytical problem-solving, and depth of character needed to transform the world. Rooted in liberal education, WSSU's curriculum prepares students to be thought leaders who have the skills and knowledge needed to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Founded in 1892, WSSU is a historically Black constituent institution of the University of North Carolina with a rich tradition of contributing to the social, cultural, intellectual, and economic growth of North Carolina, the region, and beyond. Guided by the motto, "Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve," WSSU develops leaders who advance social justice by serving the world with compassion and commitment. For more information, visit www.wssu.edu.