Tom Parks Steps Down as Head Coach of Casper College Men’s Basketball
Tom Parks has announced his resignation as head coach of the Casper College Men’s Basketball team, effective Thursday, May 1, following a remarkable two-year tenure.
Parks expressed that while he enjoyed coaching immensely, the pressures of the role had begun to affect him both mentally and physically over the past five years. “This was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make, and I am choosing to leave on my own accord,” he shared. “Casper College has provided me with incredible support during my time here. This decision is entirely mine, and I am profoundly thankful to Linda Toohey, Brandon Kosine, and the previous administration for the opportunity to lead this program. I plan to devote more time to my family and made this choice for them,” he added.
Linda Toohey, vice president for Student Services, expressed, “Casper College appreciates Tom’s contributions during his time with us, and we are saddened to see him depart.”
In his two years at Casper College, Parks achieved a record of 49 wins and 16 losses, resulting in a winning percentage of .754, ranking only behind Walter Dowler’s .778 during the 1946-1947 season. Under his leadership, both Casper College teams advanced to the Region 9 semifinals, boasting commendable statistics in the National Junior College Athletics Association during the 2023-2024 season, including eighth in the nation for points per game at 91.6.
In the 2024-2025 season, the team ranked third nationally for total rebounds with an average of 45.1 rebounds per game and sixth in both points per game at 95.0 and offensive rebounds per game at 15.4. They also excelled in various other categories, including free throws made per game and three-point shots made per game.
During his first year, six players advanced to the next level of college basketball, notably Darius Robinson and Josh Ijeh, who were recruited to Division I NCAA teams. His second year saw eight players recruited, featuring four Division I recruits, including Abdul Bashir to Auburn University. Parks’s coaching career at CC was marked by notable records and outstanding contributions from his players.
Parks reflected on his time at Casper College as the most rewarding of his career. “It’s a unique place to work, and I cherish the experiences I’ve had here. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported our program and our student-athletes,” he stated, emphasizing the overwhelming community support he received.
Assistant coach Deion Anderson has been appointed as the interim head coach, with a search for a permanent replacement starting in January or February of next year. Parks praised Anderson, stating, “Deion is an exceptional person, leader, mentor, and coach. He understands what success looks like at Casper College and will ensure the program continues to represent our institution both on and off the court.”
