Former East Tennessee State University (ETSU) basketball coach Steve Forbes returned to Johnson City on March 15, 2023, for an exhibition game featuring his current team, Wake Forest University, against the Bucs. The event, held at the Freedom Hall Civic Center, aimed to support local charities, including Uncommon Grit and Finnegan’s Challenge. Forbes expressed that his strong connections with the current ETSU head coach, Brooks Savage, and the university community motivated his return.
In a pre-game gathering at the Martin Center, Forbes recounted how he first met Savage during his time at the University of Tennessee, where Savage served as a manager. “He was always asking me a ton of questions,” Forbes recalled. “I could tell at that point he really wanted to be a coach.” Savage later followed Forbes to Northwest Florida before taking up an assistant coaching position at Chattanooga. Their bond has grown over the years, with Savage citing Forbes as a crucial mentor in his coaching career.
Despite his enthusiasm, Forbes initially hesitated to return as an opposing coach. His last game at ETSU, where he led the Bucs to a thrilling 68-67 victory over Western Carolina, was a memorable highlight. “I wanted to come back, but I didn’t,” Forbes admitted. He reminisced about that championship game, saying it was one of the greatest moments of his coaching career. “I didn’t want to ruin that moment,” he added.
The night also served as a reunion for many former players, including Patrick Good, who scored 17 points in that pivotal game. Forbes enjoyed reconnecting with those who had been part of his successful tenure at ETSU, where he achieved 130 wins over five seasons, ranking fourth among mid-major programs.
Both Forbes and Savage reflected on their time together, particularly the 2020 season when the Bucs finished with a remarkable 30-4 record but missed out on the NCAA tournament due to COVID-19. “It was heartbreaking not to have the opportunity to play in the tournament,” Forbes said. “We won 12 in a row going into the finals, and I truly believe we would have won regardless of the opponent.”
Savage echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the tight-knit chemistry of the 2020 team. “What an outstanding team. Those guys were about all the right stuff,” he said, highlighting the importance of relationships and shared experiences in coaching.
The conversation turned to a friendly debate about which ETSU team would triumph in a hypothetical matchup between the 2017 championship squad and the 2020 team. While many agreed the 2017 team boasted more individual talent, both coaches acknowledged the unparalleled bond of the 2020 roster.
Forbes, now in his sixth season at Wake Forest, maintains a strong affection for Johnson City. He recalled how the community’s support played a vital role during his time at ETSU. “The people love basketball here, and they embrace the program,” he said. He also shared personal ties to the area, noting that his daughter, Elizabeth Forbes, is involved with the ETSU athletic program.
“I felt like I was part of the community here,” Forbes reflected, highlighting the lasting connections he and his family have with the region. As he engaged with former players and supporters, the evening resonated not just as a competitive event but as a celebration of camaraderie and shared history.
The exhibition game served as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted relationships forged through basketball, showcasing the impact of mentorship and community support in shaping the lives of players and coaches alike.
