Western Michigan University announced Tuesday that Manny Patterson has been appointed Director of Player Development for the Broncos' men's basketball program, a move that brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to the team.
Patterson, a Chicago native, joins the program after spending two seasons as an assistant at Francis W. Parker High School, where he helped shape three All‑Conference players and the ISL Player of the Year.
His coaching journey also includes running the MP Skills Academy, a respected training hub that has produced talent across the Midwest.
Before turning to coaching, Patterson enjoyed a professional playing career that took him across Europe, logging stints in Finland, Austria, Spain and Sweden, as well as five seasons of NCAA basketball at Green Bay and Southeast Missouri State.
At Southeast Missouri State, he played under current Western Michigan assistant coach Dustin Yoder, graduating in 2021 and maintaining a connection to the program that would later lead to his hiring.
A Global Outlook on Player Development
Patterson's trajectory — from the courts of Green Bay to the professional leagues of Europe and now to Kalamazoo — reflects a career built on adaptability and a deep understanding of diverse playing styles.
In his new role, he will oversee skill development programs, coordinate recruitment efforts, and mentor current roster members, aiming to elevate the Broncos' competitiveness in the Mid‑American Conference.
University officials expressed confidence that Patterson's blend of experience and local ties will strengthen the program's foundation and foster a culture of continuous improvement.