USD Announces New Head Men’s Basketball Coach

March 27, 2026

The University of San Diego Athletics Department has appointed JR Blount as the new head coach for its men's basketball program, following a comprehensive national search. The 38-year-old Milwaukee native brings 16 years of coaching experience and is considered a rising star in college basketball coaching circles. Most recently, Blount served as an assistant coach at Iowa State for five seasons, where he contributed to the program's historic success, including four NCAA Tournament berths.

Who is affected

JR Blount (new head coach)
University of San Diego men's basketball team players
USD Athletics Department
USD fans and community
Iowa State Cyclones (losing an assistant coach)

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are currently described in the article. The announcement was made at a press conference, but this is a completed action rather than an ongoing one.

Why it matters

This hire is significant because USD's basketball program has been struggling for over a decade without an NCAA Tournament appearance since 2008. Blount's track record of success at Iowa State, where he helped build one of the program's most successful periods, offers hope for revitalizing the Toreros' fortunes. The appointment represents USD's commitment to transforming its basketball program into a competitive force that can attract talent, engage fans, and restore the program's reputation.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint