The Illinois State Redbirds have announced the promotion of Jack Betz and Ethan Morton to assistant coach positions, marking a significant step in the program’s leadership restructuring as they prepare for the 2026‑27 season.
A New Era of Coaching Leadership
Jack Betz, who began his tenure with the Redbirds as a graduate assistant, later served as Director of Basketball Operations and Chief of Staff, will now bring his fifth year of deep program knowledge to the sidelines. His progression reflects a commitment to continuity and strategic development within the team.
Ethan Morton, who most recently held the role of Director of Basketball Operations during the 2025‑26 campaign, steps into his second season as an assistant coach. His elevation underscores the program’s confidence in his operational acumen and player development expertise.
The Redbirds will open the new season with two exhibition contests, facing Northwestern on October 18 and Saint Mary's on November 2. These matchups provide an early test of the revamped coaching staff and allow the squad to fine‑tune its identity before regular‑season play.
Head Coach Chris Beard highlighted that the promotions are part of a broader effort to embed continuity and fresh perspectives into the program. "Having both Betz and Morton in these roles gives us a blend of institutional memory and innovative thinking," he said, emphasizing the team's focus on building on recent successes.