Kenny Johnson returning to IU basketball as an assistant coach…Read More

Kenny Johnson, a seasoned basketball coach renowned for his exceptional recruiting and player development skills, is set to return to Indiana University (IU) as an assistant coach for the men’s basketball team. This move reunites Johnson with the Hoosiers, where he previously served under Coach Tom Crean from 2012 to 2014.

 

During his initial tenure at IU, Johnson played a pivotal role in assembling two top-20 recruiting classes, including a top-five class in 2013. His efforts contributed to the Hoosiers’ impressive 46-22 record over those two seasons, which featured a Big Ten Championship and a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament. citeturn0search2

 

Johnson’s coaching journey has since taken him to several prestigious programs. After leaving IU, he joined the University of Louisville, where he advanced from assistant coach to associate head coach between 2014 and 2017. There, he helped the Cardinals achieve a 75-26 record, including a run to the Elite Eight in 2015. citeturn0search0

 

In 2018, Johnson continued his career at La Salle University as an assistant coach, followed by a return to Rhode Island University in 2022, where he worked under Coach Archie Miller. Most recently, in April 2024, he joined Georgetown University’s coaching staff, bringing his extensive experience and deep roots in the Washington, D.C.-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) area to the Hoyas. citeturn0search3

 

Throughout his career, Johnson has been instrumental in the development of numerous NBA players, including Terry Rozier, Montrezl Harrell, Damion Lee, Jordan Nwora, Donovan Mitchell, Victor Oladipo, Cody Zeller, Noah Vonleh, Josh Hart, and Jerami Grant. His reputation as a top national recruiter and elite talent developer has been well-established across various coaching stops. citeturn0search0

 

Johnson’s return to IU is expected to have a significant impact on the program’s recruiting efforts, particularly in the DMV region, where he has longstanding relationships with high school and AAU coaches. His familiarity with IU’s culture and his proven track record in player development position him to make immediate contributions to the Hoosiers’ success.

 

This strategic addition to the coaching staff underscores IU’s commitment to enhancing its basketball program by leveraging Johnson’s expertise and extensive network to attract top-tier talent and achieve sustained success on the national stage.