Simon Harris has been appointed as an assistant coach for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini women's basketball team, adding depth to head coach Shauna Green's staff.
A Shared History at Dayton
Green and Harris first worked together at Dayton, where they were part of a coaching staff that guided the Flyers to an Elite Eight appearance during the 2014‑15 season. Their collaboration continued from 2016 through 2018, a period that helped solidify Green's reputation as a rising star in collegiate basketball.
Harris arrives in Champaign after a coaching journey that spans NC State, Loyola Chicago, East Tennessee State, Ohio State and a head‑coaching tenure at East Tennessee State during the 2021‑22 campaign. At NC State he helped the Wolfpack reach the Sweet Sixteen and orchestrated a 21‑game winning streak that highlighted his ability to develop talent and sustain momentum.
From the Classroom to the Court
Beyond the clipboard, Harris holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from North Carolina State University. His playing days at the same school were followed by a professional stint in Ireland, where he refined his game before returning to the United States to coach. In the AAU circuit he played alongside future NBA star Chris Paul and Reyshawn Terry, with whom he captured a national championship with the Kappa Magic.
The new assistant brings a global perspective to the Illini program, having experienced basketball cultures from Ireland to Texas and Pennsylvania. His diverse background, combined with a proven track record of success, positions him as a valuable asset as the team aims to build on recent achievements.