Terry Don Phillips, Clemson Athletic Director Who Hired Dabo Swinney, Dies at 78

Former Clemson athletic director Terry Don Phillips died on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at age 78 after a decade-long battle with dementia. The university announced his death in a press release, noting his hospice care and lasting influence on Clemson athletics.

The State

Phillips directed Clemson athletics from 2002-2012, overseeing 13 ACC titles in eight sports and 57 top-25 finishes. He hired Dabo Swinney in 2008 and kept coaches Brad Brownell, Mike Noonan and Eddie Radwanski, all still on staff.

ESPN

After a 6-6 season ended with a loss to South Carolina, interim head coach Swinney packed his office, believing he would be fired. Phillips entered with finance director Katie Hill and senior associate AD Bill D’Andrea, ordered Swinney to sit, and heard Swinney argue the staff—nine position coaches, two graduate assistants, an operations staffer, a recruiting assistant and two secretaries—was inadequate. Phillips called an emergency board meeting, approved expanding the staff to over 90 members, and reaffirmed Swinney’s role, telling him, “This is why you are going to be a great head coach,” and adding, “You fight for what you believe in.”

The Clemson InsiderThe StateESPN

Since 2008, Swinney has posted a 187-53 record, won national titles in 2016 and 2018, and become Clemson’s winningest coach. Phillips’ tenure helped Clemson secure 13 ACC titles in eight sports and 57 top-25 finishes. Former players credit Phillips’ mentorship for a culture of resilience and sustained excellence.

ESPN

Clemson’s release praised Phillips for his talent in selecting coaches whose values aligned with the university. Head coach Dabo Swinney called him “one of the greatest mentors of my life” and expressed relief that Phillips was no longer suffering. Brad Brownell echoed the same praise.

The State

• “I go from thinking I'm getting fired to Terry Don Phillips telling me how much he believes in me,” — Dabo Swinney, Clemson head football coach

ESPN

• “It’s a very sad day, but it’s also a blessing because I know he’s not suffering anymore,” — Dabo Swinney

The State

• “He (Phillips) had a unique ability to find coaches with the values that fit Clemson.” — Brad Brownell, Clemson men’s basketball coach

The State

• “This is why you are going to be a great head coach.” — Terry Don Phillips

The Clemson Insider

Clemson will hold a memorial service for Phillips later this week, with former colleagues and athletes expected to attend. The university will honor his legacy through scholarships and continued support of the programs he built.

The State