Rakim Gregory begins his first season at North Carolina Central as assistant coach and recruiting coordinator on the women's basketball staff.
Gregory has built a reputation for developing talent after coaching nearly a decade on the collegiate and high school levels. His recruiting prowess comes from eight years of coaching and evaluating players on the travel ball circuit.
He was an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator under Gaines when she was head coach at Allen during the 2024-25 season. During Gaines' impressive two-year run, Allen was 36-19 overall, including a 29-14 conference mark, from 2024 to 2026. Allen set single-season program records in the Division II era for overall (18) and conference (16) victories.
Gregory was instrumental in his only season at Allen under Gaines. In addition to setting a school record for wins, Allen produced its first SIAC Player of the Year and SIAC Freshman of the Year in school history.
"Rakim Gregory was instrumental to our success at Allen University as recruiting coordinator in 2024-2025," Gaines said. "His work ethic and ability to connect with student-athletes are second to none. He knows the system and understands the type of players we want to bring in. I'm excited to work alongside him again."
Gregory comes to NCCU from Palmetto (S.C.) Scholars Academy where he was head girls’ basketball coach this past season. His coaching career includes stints at Summerville High School, Stall High School, Fort Dorchester High School and Oklahoma Panhandle State in addition to Allen and Palmetto Scholars Academy.
During Gregory's coaching career, numerous players developed into All-State and All-Region standouts and earned spots on college rosters. In travel ball, Gregory worked with elite prospects and made recruiting connections while coaching at major events such as the Nike EYBL, Under Armour and adidas tournaments.
Known for his passion for mentoring young women, recruiting, player development, and building winning cultures, Gregory is committed to helping student-athletes grow academically, athletically, and personally while advancing the tradition of excellence at NCCU.
"I want to sincerely thank Coach Olivia Gaines for her mentorship, belief, and support throughout my coaching journey," Gregory said. "I am also incredibly grateful to the North Carolina Central athletic administration and Coach Gaines for the opportunity to join such a prestigious university and championship-driven program. It is an honor to represent NCCU, and I am excited to help develop our student-athletes while contributing to the continued success of Eagle women's basketball."
