TJ Lacey was hired as an assistant coach for the men's basketball program in July 2023, after serving as a graduate assistant for one season.
Lacey began his collegiate coaching career in 2022 as a member of the Rockford University men's basketball staff. The Regents posted their third consecutive winning season in 2022-23, with a 13-11 record and also earned their third straight trip to the NACC Tournament. Lacey helped coach a pair of All-NACC performers and the Rockford University Male Athlete of the Year.
Prior to entering the coaching ranks, Lacey began his playing career at Trinity Christian College. He played varsity each year he was there and was also selected as a team captain three times. Lacey then transferred to Rockford University for his final season. He played in 24 games with 23 starts, averaging 11.9 points, 6 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.3 steals. Lacey finished his collegiate playing career with perhaps his best performance of the season. Lacey led the Regents with 19 points, 12 rebounds and 3 steals in a NACC Tournament game at Edgewood.
Lacey is a valedictorian graduate of CICS Longwood where he played basketball and named team captain his final two years with the program. He received All-Conference, Honorable Mention All-Area, and Honorable Mention All-State awards in his high school career, leading to a Chicago Public League All-Star Game appearance. Lacey recorded 18 points and five assists in his senior year, earning the team MVP award. He contributed to the teams success his senior year as well, helping them to their first ever Regional Championship game.
Lacey earned his bachelor's degree from Trinity Christian College and his master's degree in Education from Rockford University.
