Terry Tippett, born on September 1, 1945, embarked on a remarkable coaching journey that spanned 36 years, from 1968 to 2004. His career began at Collierville High School, where for two years he coached football, basketball, and baseball, setting the foundation for his diversified coaching skills. In 1972, Tippett moved to Dyer County High School, making significant strides in the football program by leading the team to the TSSAA Class A Championships in 1972 and 1973. His impact extended to the basketball team, achieving its first-ever Sub-state berth under his guidance.

Tippett's coaching journey continued at Trezevant High School from 1977 to 1986, where he led the basketball team to a triumphant win in the 1980 TSSAA Class AA Championships with an impressive 34-1 record. However, it was at White Station High School, from 1986 to 2004, that his coaching prowess truly flourished. During his tenure there, Tippett amassed four TSSAA Class AAA State Championships, two Class AAA Runners-Up titles, and an outstanding record of 472 wins to 136 losses.

His achievements in the latter stages of his career were particularly noteworthy. Tippett posted a 176-12 record in his last five years, capturing five City Championships and five Region 8AAA Championships. His overall coaching record stood at an impressive 669 wins against 343 losses. His success garnered him national attention, with his teams ranked in the USA Today top ten poll for four consecutive years. Tippett was honored as Coach of the Year six times (1987, 1989, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004), coached two AAA "Mr. Basketball" Award winners, and led the TACA West All-Star team to victory in 2000.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to high school athletics and his service to the TSSAA, Terry Tippett was inducted into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2005. His career not only exemplifies excellence in coaching but also a longstanding dedication to developing young athletes in Tennessee.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2005
Category: Coach