Lane Below earns Panhandle Coach of the Year

Gulf Coast State Men's Basketball Head Coach Lane Below has been named the 2026 Panhandle Conference Coach of the Year. Below shares the honor after leading the Commodores through a strong conference season.  The award comes after a historic finish in the Panhandle Conference, where four teams tied for first place with identical 7-5 conference records. Because of the tie at the top of the standings, the Coach of the Year honor was shared among the conference's top programs.

In his second season as head coach, Below guided the Commodores to a 24-6 overall record and a 7-5 mark in Panhandle Conference play. Gulf Coast State also earned the #2 seed in the upcoming FCSAA Region 8 Tournament.  Throughout the season, the Commodores were strong on both ends of the floor. Gulf Coast averages 83.0 points per game, averages 40.8 rebounds per game, 67.9% from the free-throw line, and 16.1 assists per game.

Below's leadership helped the Commodores stay competitive in one of the toughest conferences in junior college basketball. His team showed strong teamwork, defense, and discipline throughout the season while picking up several key conference wins.

Below is known for building strong relationships with his players and helping them grow both on and off the court. His focus on player development and team success continues to keep Gulf Coast State among the top programs in the Panhandle Conference.