University of San Diego Athletics announced in a press conference on Tuesday, March 24, JR Blount as the new head coach for the Toreros men’s basketball team.
Blount has consistently risen through the college coaching ranks throughout his 16 years of experience, and is widely recognized as a bright up and comer in basketball coaching.
The 38 Milwaukee native arrives in San Diego after five seasons as an assistant coach for the Iowa State Cyclones where he’s helped lead the team into one of the most successful runs in their program’s history, including four NCAA Tournament appearances.
USD’s basketball program has not seen an NCAA tournament since the 2007-2008 season. After a nationwide competitive search, the USD athletic department is hopeful that with Blount at the helm, the program will turn around towards a path of victory.
“I’m incredibly honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead USD men’s basketball,” Blount said in a statement. “This is more than just a coaching position for me — it’s a chance to become part of a community and build something meaningful.
I come to USD with a deep desire to win — to compete relentlessly, to develop our young men to their fullest potential and to build a program our fans can be proud of. Winning championships is important, but so is building a culture of toughness, accountability and love. We’re going to work every day to represent USD the right way, on and off the court. I’m ready to get started.”
