Kenny Johnson Returns to Indiana Basketball as Assistant Coach

Indiana basketball team practicing on the court

Bloomington, Indiana, January 11, 2026

The Indiana University men’s basketball program has announced the hiring of Kenny Johnson as an assistant coach. Known for his prior success at Indiana and experience with other leading programs, Johnson is set to enhance the team’s recruiting and talent development strategies. Alongside him, the Hoosiers have added Rod Clark, Drew Adams, and Nick Norton to the coaching staff. As Indiana prepares for its upcoming season, the new lineup aims to reclaim its prominence in college basketball.


Bloomington, Indiana – The Indiana University men’s basketball program has made a significant move by hiring Kenny Johnson as an assistant coach under head coach Darian DeVries. Johnson, a familiar face in Indiana basketball, returns to the Hoosiers after a one-year stint at Georgetown University. His prior experience at Indiana from 2012 to 2014 was marked by crucial achievements, including the securing of an outright Big Ten Championship and mentoring future NBA stars such as Victor Oladipo and Donovan Mitchell.

Kenny Johnson’s coaching career has included roles at prominent institutions like Louisville, La Salle, and Rhode Island, demonstrating his extensive background and expertise in the sport. Head coach Darian DeVries expressed enthusiasm about Johnson’s return, particularly praising his exceptional recruiting abilities and the track record he has established for developing NBA talent.

In an effort to bolster the coaching staff further, the Hoosiers have also appointed Rod Clark, who arrives from Tennessee, Drew Adams, who returns to his hometown after two seasons at Cincinnati, and Nick Norton, who joins from West Virginia. This new lineup is poised to bring fresh perspectives and strategies, aiming to build upon recent successes and continue Indiana’s rich tradition in men’s basketball.

### Upcoming Season Outlook

The Hoosiers are gearing up to kick off their 2025-26 season with an exhibition game against Marian University on October 17, 2025, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. With Kenny Johnson at the helm alongside the new coaching staff, Indiana appears committed to enhancing its competitive edge within the Big Ten and beyond.

This commitment reflects the resilience and dedication that characterize Indiana’s approach to basketball and sports in general. By investing in experienced personnel and maintaining focus on talent development, the Hoosiers are setting the stage for a promising future.

### Conclusion

Kenny Johnson’s return marks a pivotal moment for Indiana basketball as the program seeks to reclaim its standing among the elite in college sports. His extensive experience and proven success in nurturing talent provide a solid foundation for the team. As the Hoosiers prepare for the upcoming season, fans and community members are encouraged to rally in support and participate in what promises to be an exciting year ahead for Indiana basketball.

### FAQ

Who is Kenny Johnson?

Kenny Johnson is an experienced basketball coach who has previously served as an assistant coach at Indiana University, Louisville, La Salle, Rhode Island, and Georgetown. He is known for his exceptional recruiting abilities and for developing NBA talent.

What is Johnson’s connection to Indiana University?

Johnson served as an assistant coach at Indiana University from 2012 to 2014, contributing to an outright Big Ten Championship and coaching NBA All-Stars Victor Oladipo and Donovan Mitchell.

Who are the other members of the coaching staff?

The coaching staff includes Rod Clark, who joins from Tennessee; Drew Adams, returning to his hometown after two seasons at Cincinnati; and Nick Norton, moving to Bloomington after a stint at West Virginia.

When does the 2025-26 season begin?

The 2025-26 season begins with an exhibition game against Marian University on October 17, 2025, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall.

Feature Details
Coach Kenny Johnson
Previous Role Assistant Coach at Georgetown University
Previous Stint at Indiana 2012–2014
Coaching Experience Louisville, La Salle, Rhode Island, Georgetown
Coaching Staff Rod Clark, Drew Adams, Nick Norton
Season Start Date October 17, 2025

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