Taylor Shaffer enters his third year at Neosho County Community College after his hiring in June 2022. During his first year, Shaffer led the Panthers to an 11-18 season, that included coaching Honorable Mention All-Conference player Alexander Norris.
During his second season at the helm, Shaffer oversaw a massive turnaround, and led the Panthers to their first winning season in almost a decade as the team finished 16-14. Amongst the 16 wins that the Panthers achieved in the previous year, was the school’s first victory over a Division 1 NJCAA opponent since Neosho County made the decision to move to Division 2 in 2021. The 2023-2024 season, also saw the Men’s Basketball program break school records for points allowed in a season and PPG allowed, as the Panthers were able to finish the year ranked 9th in the country defensively. During his second season, Shaffer was also able to recruit and coach the Defensive Player of the Year and First Team All-Conference recipient Isaiah Howell.
Before Neosho County, Shaffer spent one season as an assistant coach at NCAA Division II school Adams State University where he helped coach Senior Malik Moore to All-Conference honors. Prior to Adams State University, Shaffer spent two seasons as a graduate assistant at Chadron State College. During his time at Chadron State College, Shaffer helped lead the Eagles to their 7th conference tournament in school history, and helped coach three players to all-conference honors.
Before moving to the men’s side, Coach Shaffer spent one year coaching in China for the United State Basketball Academy, and two years as the Head Women’s Coach at Otero Junior College. During his two years as a head coach on the women’s side, Shaffer earned the 2017 Region IX South coach of the year, and coached 4 players to All-Region honors.
As a player, Shaffer spent two seasons at Otero Junior College, and was a member of the 2012 Region IX Championship team. After his two seasons, at Otero Junior College, Shaffer transferred to Colorado Mesa University where he finished his playing career.
Shaffer graduated from Colorado Mesa University in 2016, and earned his master’s degree from Chadron State College in 2021. He recides in Chanute with his fiancé, Rekeshia Jones.
Some of his player and coaching accolades include:
2016-2017 NJCAA Region IX South Coach of the Year
2021 helped lead Chadron State to their 7th conference tournament in school history
Coached 9 all-region/all-conference players in 6 years
Coached 2 pros at Chadron State, and 2 who are currently signed with an agent at Adams State
Won the 2012 Region IX Championship and went to the Elite Eight in the national tournament as a player at Otero Junior College
