Dusty May, the head coach of the Florida Atlantic University Owls men’s basketball team, has made a remarkable journey in the world of college basketball. As he leads his team to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament, it’s essential to recognize the support he receives from his family, especially his wife, Anna May. In this article, we delve into the life of Dusty May, his coaching career, and the pivotal role Anna plays in his success.
The Early Years and Coaching Career
Dusty May’s basketball journey began at Eastern Greene High School in Bloomfield, Indiana. It was during his time there that he crossed paths with Anna Nonte, who would later become his wife. The two shared a special bond as high school sweethearts and continued their education together at Indiana University. However, Anna later pursued her studies at Purdue University while Dusty remained dedicated to his basketball aspirations.
Dusty’s love for the sport led him to become a student manager for the renowned Hoosiers men’s basketball team at Indiana University from 1996 to 2000. After graduating, he embarked on a coaching career that spanned various institutions and roles. May served as an assistant coach at Eastern Michigan, Murray State, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Louisiana Tech, and University of Florida.
In 2018, Dusty May was appointed as the head men’s basketball coach at Florida Atlantic University. Since then, he has made a significant impact on the team’s performance, leading them to unprecedented success in the 2023 NCAA Tournament.
Dusty May’s Coaching Triumphs
Under Dusty May’s guidance, the Florida Atlantic University Owls have achieved remarkable milestones. May’s tenure has seen the team steadily improve its standing within the conference. In 2022, the Owls dominated the regular season, finishing first in Conference USA for the first time in the program’s history. This accomplishment set the stage for their incredible performance in the 2023 NCAA Tournament, where they defeated formidable opponents such as Memphis, Fairleigh Dickinson, Tennessee, and Kansas State to secure a spot in the Final Four.
Anna May: The Supportive Force
Behind every successful coach is a supportive partner, and for Dusty May, that partner is Anna May. Dusty and Anna tied the knot in 2000 and have since built a life together, raising three children along the way. Anna is reportedly an operational therapist, demonstrating her dedication to helping others just as Dusty does on the basketball court.
Throughout Dusty’s coaching career, Anna has been his constant pillar of support. They have traversed different states together, living in Indiana, California, Louisiana, and now Florida. Anna’s unwavering support has been instrumental in Dusty’s pursuit of his coaching dreams, providing stability and strength during challenging times.
A Life of Sacrifices and Emotional Decisions
Accepting the head coaching job at Florida Atlantic University was a decision that evoked strong emotions in Dusty May. He admitted that he initially felt overwhelmed and doubted his abilities, describing it as “career suicide.” The facilities at FAU were not initially up to par with what he had experienced at the University of Florida, where he served as an assistant coach.
However, Dusty’s relationship with Mike White, the former head coach of the Florida Gators, played a crucial role in his decision to accept the FAU job. Dusty credits his wife, Anna, as one of the key reasons for taking the leap. Her unwavering support and belief in his abilities gave him the strength to embrace the challenge.
The May Basketball Family
The May family’s passion for basketball extends beyond Dusty’s coaching career. Dusty and Anna have three sons: Jack, Charlie, and Eli. Jack, the oldest son, has followed in his father’s footsteps and currently plays basketball for the University of Florida. Although Jack started his basketball journey in Gainesville, he moved to Boca Raton when Dusty accepted the head coaching position at FAU.
Charlie, Dusty and Anna’s second son, is a walk-on player at the University of Central Florida (UCF). The youngest son, Eli, continues his basketball journey at Saint Andrew’s School. Dusty acknowledges the role his sons play as walk-ons, emphasizing the importance of bringing energy to the team and supporting their teammates.
Final Thoughts
Dusty May’s journey from a student manager at Indiana University to the head coach of the Florida Atlantic University Owls is a testament to his determination and passion for the game. Throughout this journey, his wife, Anna May, has been his unwavering support system, standing by his side through the ups and downs of his coaching career.
As the Owls prepare to compete in the Final Four, Dusty May’s achievements and the integral role played by his family, particularly his wife Anna, deserve recognition. The May family’s dedication and sacrifices have contributed to Dusty’s success as a coach, and they continue to inspire and support him as he leads his team to new heights in the world of college basketball.
