NDSU hires new men's basketball assistant coach

North Dakota State head men's basketball coach David Richman announced the hiring of Joshua Jones as an assistant coach for the Bison on Friday, May 1.

Jones comes to NDSU from Western Illinois University, where he served as an assistant coach for four seasons from 2016-20.

"Josh's experiences and understanding of The Summit League and our recruiting footprint will help make for a smooth transition," said Richman. "Through the hiring process, Josh's humility and passion for the game and for his student-athletes really stood out, and that is of the utmost importance to us. Josh and Ashley will be great fits within our Bison Family and help us continue to raise the bar for Bison Basketball."

Prior to his time at WIU, Jones was an assistant at Division II Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Mo., for two seasons from 2014-16.

"My wife and I are beyond excited to be joining Coach Richman's staff and the Fargo community," Jones said. "I've spent the past four years in The Summit League and know firsthand that NDSU is a very special place. I look forward to helping our student-athletes and the NDSU men's basketball program build upon its rich tradition."

Jones was a standout guard, four-year starter, and four-year captain in his playing career at Eastern Kentucky University from 2008-12. He totaled nearly 1,200 career points and led EKU to 69 victories over four seasons. Following his time as a student-athlete, Jones spent the 2013-14 season as a graduate assistant coach, helping the Colonels to an Ohio Valley Conference championship and NCAA Tournament berth.

A native of Indianapolis, Jones earned a bachelor's degree in sports management from Eastern Kentucky in 2012.

NDSU swept the Summit League regular season and tournament championships in 2020, earning its fourth NCAA Tournament berth in seven years.