A former Clemson assistant coach is officially in the win column with his new program.

Former Clemson associate head coach Billy Donlon earned his first win as the head coach of Eastern Michigan on Monday.

Donlon’s Eagles defeated Coastal Carolina 71–70 in the 2026-27 season opener at The HTC Center in Conway, S.C., as part of the Mid-American Conference-Sun Belt Conference Challenge.

Donlon was named the 31st men’s basketball head coach at Eastern Michigan in March 2026.

Donlon served as the associate head coach under Brad Brownell at Clemson for four seasons (2022–2026). He played a major role in Clemson’s success over the last few years, helping the Tigers make the NCAA Tournament for three straight seasons, including an Elite Eight appearance in 2024.

Donlon previously served as head coach at Wright State (2010–2016) and Kansas City (2019–2022). In addition to Clemson, Donlon has had stints as an assistant at Wright State, UNC Wilmington, American, St. Peters, Michigan and Northwestern.

With his first win at Eastern Michigan, the 49-year-old Donlon now owns a career head coaching record of 156-133. Up next for Donlon and Eastern Michigan is a road game at Xavier on Friday.