The Rob Senderoff coaching tree added another chapter on Monday, when it was officially announced that former Kent State player Jalen Avery was coming back to coach in Kent, taking the spot on staff vacated by Jim Christian when he left to become the Head Coach at Canisius.
Avery had spent the previous three seasons with former KSU bench boss Geno Ford at Stony Brook. Avery became an integral cog in the Sea Wolves run to the CAA Championship game this past season.
Avery was named the program’s offensive coordinator. He also assisted in the practice planning, identified and evaluated potential recruits, compiled scouting reports, and served as a liaison between student-athletes and the academic advising staff.
Of course Avery is no stranger to the history and tradition of Kent State Basketball. Avery played four years at KSU. He appeared in 127 games with 89 starts.
Avery averaged 7.1 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game and was a two time captain in his career.
He led the nation in assist-to-turnover ratio at Kent State during his junior season.
His emergence during the 2016-2017 season at point guard helped lead the #6 seed Flashes to four wins in six days to capture the 2017 MAC Tournament.
“I am extremely excited to bring Jalen back,” Rob Senderoff said in a release.. “As a former student-athlete here at Kent State, Avery was one of the elite leaders. We are excited to help Jalen continue his coaching journey. We want to welcome back Jalen and Harvonne to Kent State.”
Avery will no doubt be instrumental in the tutelage of Kent State’s two new point guards Cian Medley and Jamal Sumlin. Medley tweeted out Monday, “Being able to learn from the ones that did it. Blessing.”
Avery joins Julian Sullinger, Randal Holt and Jon Fleming on staff, all of whom played at KSU. The Rob Senderoff coaching tree continues, and it is among his greatest legacies in 13 years as Head Coach.
SULLINGER TO FURMAN: For those that may have missed it, former KSU guard Jalen Sullinger announced he is transferring to Furman. Sullinger reunites with Thomas Worthington High School teammate Tyrese Hughey with the Paladins.