Bio

Zach Tunnell is entering his fourth season as a Buccaneer Assistant Coach. Tunnell has been involved in every aspect of the program and taken leadership roles in strength and conditioning, nutrition, special situations, rebounding, stats and analytics, equipment, academics, film editing, scouting, recruiting, and skill development. 

“Coach T has been a vital part of our success over the past three seasons,” shared Dawson head coach Joe Peterson. “We have taken big steps forward in rebounding and analytics especially and that is because of the work that he has put in. He develops great relationships with our players on and off the court and gets to know what really makes them tick and how to help them get better. He is a positive person, easy to get along with and truly cares about people. I love that he is always willing to help anyone and do anything that is asked of him. He is a special person and we are fortunate to have him with us.” 

Tunnell played golf at Miles Community College and a year of basketball at Dawson.  He joined the coaching staff at Dawson before the 2022-2023 season. In his first three seasons Tunnell has helped the Buccaneers to win an average of 26 games a year. The Buccaneers scoring average, field goal percentage, 3 points percentage and rebounding have increased every season since Tunnell joined the staff. The 2024-2025 season was one of Dawson’s best ever in the Buccaneers storied 70 year history. The Bucs went 29-4, winning the conference and region championships. They shot 50% from the field, 37% from the 3-point line and averaged over 100 points a game. 

Tunnell grew up in Montana, mostly in Savage and around Missoula.  Tunnell also serves as the Sports Information Director for Dawson Community College.