OWINGS MILLS, Md. – Stevenson University Assistant Director of Athletics and head men's basketball coach Gary Stewart has announced he is stepping down from his post as head men's basketball coach to return to his home state of California to be head coach at University of California Merced. Coach Stewart will lead the UC Merced Bobcats as they transition to a NCAA Division II program.

Stewart leaves Stevenson as the all-time winningest coach in men's basketball history, gaining 155 wins. The Mustangs won a school record 21 games in back-to-back season during the 2013-14 and 2014-15 seasons. Both times, the Mustangs captured the ECAC Championship. For his efforts during the 2013-14 season, he was named the Middle Atlantic Conference Commonwealth Conference Coach of the Year by his peers. For his efforts at Stevenson, he was awarded the President's Medal in 2023, which is given to a Stevenson faculty or staff member who exemplify the University's ideals and have made extraordinary service contributions.

"I had the pleasure of working with Gary for the past 13 years, and he was an outstanding member of the Athletics Department," said Stevenson University Interim Director of Athletics Matt Grimm. "Not only was he a quality coach, but he was always one of the first to pitch in when another team needed a hand.  We wish him the best on his move back to the West Coast."

Away from the court, Stewart was a stalwart in both the campus and basketball communities. He served as the departments ADID, as well as the chair of the Athletics Diversity and Inclusion Committee. He was the President of the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) during the 2022-23 season and is currently the President Emeritus. Under his leadership, the Mustang men's basketball team has participated in many different community service activities, including the United Way, ALS Foundation and Autism Speaks.

"We thank Gary for his dedication and service to Mustang basketball and athletics, as a coach, mentor, and administrator," said James Mustard, Vice President for Administration and Facilities, who oversees the Stevenson Athletics Department. "He will be missed but he will also be remembered for his leadership, thoughtfulness, and concern for his athletes."