Purdue University announced this April that P.J. Thompson would ascend to associate head coach of its men’s basketball program, accompanied by a $200,000 raise that lifts his annual compensation to $600,000.
Thompson, a former Boilermaker point guard who briefly pursued a professional career before returning to West Lafayette in 2019 as a graduate assistant, has quickly become a central figure in the team’s offensive scheme.
Under his coordination, the Boilermakers posted the best adjusted efficiency score in KenPom’s metrics last season, a testament to the modern, tempo‑driven style he helped implement.
His influence was most evident in the development of Braden Smith, whose record‑setting assist numbers placed him at the top of the NCAA’s all‑time leaders.
The promotion also coincided with notable salary adjustments for the rest of the staff. Paul Lusk’s pay rose from $475,000 to $525,000, Brandon Brantley’s from $500,000 to $525,000, and Sasha Stefanovic’s from $150,000 to $200,000, while newcomer Kenneth Lowe will earn $200,000 in his first year.
These increases pushed the total assistant coach payroll to $2.05 million, up from $1.85 million the previous season.
Implications for the program
The moves signal Purdue’s intent to reinforce a winning culture and to reward the staff whose work helped the program achieve its highest offensive efficiency in years.