Donovan Newby returns to UNCW as director of player personnel

WILMINGTON, NC – Former UNCW standout Donovan Newby is returning to the Seahawks men’s basketball program as Director of Player Personnel, head coach Takayo Siddle announced Wednesday.

Newby, the 2025 Coastal Athletic Association Tournament Most Outstanding Player, joins the coaching staff after helping lead UNCW to the program’s league-record seventh CAA Tournament championship and its first NCAA Tournament appearance in eight years.

In his new role, Newby will assist with player development, scouting, talent evaluation and recruiting.

“We are beyond grateful to welcome Donovan back to our staff,” Siddle said. “Having experienced the same challenges and helped capture a CAA Championship, he brings instant credibility with our players.”

Newby played three seasons at UNCW after transferring from UW-Milwaukee, scoring 1,005 points and helping the Seahawks win 72 games, including three consecutive 20-win seasons.

During the 2024-25 season, Newby started all 35 games and earned All-CAA, All-Region and CAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors while averaging 14.4 points per game.

He averaged 16.6 points during UNCW’s CAA Tournament championship run, including 24 points in the semifinals against Charleston and 17 points in the title game against Delaware. Newby also made all 18 of his free-throw attempts during the tournament.

“I came back to UNCW because this program shaped me into more than just a player—it helped me grow into the man I am today,” Newby said. “Coming back gives me the opportunity to help the next generation of players chase success while growing as individuals.”

Newby joins assistant coach Craig Ponder as the second former Seahawk player on UNCW’s coaching staff.