Anthony “Tony” Wagner, a 1996 Wayland Baptist University graduate whose basketball coaching career includes 543 wins and a state championship, is one of two former students set to receive a Pioneer Alumni Educator Award at the Blue & Gold Awards Banquet at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, in the Trinity Building Chapel.
The banquet is part of Wayland’s Homecoming ’26 festivities, set for Oct. 18–25 on the Plainview campus.
“Tony’s success includes an impressive record on the court, but this honor also recognizes his commitment to developing young people,” said Jeffrey Vera, Director of Alumni Relations and Career Services. “His years of coaching and mentoring reflect the lasting influence an educator can have. We look forward to welcoming him back to Wayland
for this celebration.”
Wagner has coached at Estacado High School in Lubbock since 2000. During his tenure, Estacado teams have earned 22 district championships in 26 seasons, five regional championships, and five state tournament appearances. His teams have won a state championship and finished as state runner-up.
His individual honors include 13 District Coach of the Year awards, four Avalanche-Journal Coach of the Year awards, and recognition from the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches and the Prairie View Interscholastic League.
Wagner earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, All-Level, from Wayland. He played basketball for the Pioneers from the 1993–1994 season through 1995–1996, earning All-Southwest Region recognition. He also was a three-time All-American high jumper.
After his playing career, Wagner spent two years as a graduate assistant at Wayland, learning the coaching profession and developing his approach to working with athletes. His first high school coaching position was at Plainview High School. He later joined Lubbock Independent School District after being hired by the late Greg Sherwood.
Throughout his career, Wagner has emphasized family, faith, relationships, and preparing athletes for life beyond basketball. He is the father of three children and grandfather of four.
The Pioneer Alumni Educator Award recognizes Wayland graduates who have served their communities through teaching or educational administration. The Wayland Alumni Association will honor Wagner and this year’s other alumni award recipients at the banquet. Guests can reserve a seat, including the meal, by RSVPing at https://bit.ly/4xGKvk0. The reservations deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, Oct. 12.
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Wayland to honor longtime Lubbock Estacado coach Tony Wagner
