A Strategic Addition
The University of Washington announced this week that DeAndre Haynes will join the Huskies' coaching staff ahead of the 2026‑27 campaign, bringing a blend of playing experience and coaching acumen to the program.
Haynes, who spent the last five seasons as an assistant under Shaka Smart at Marquette University, helped the Golden Eagles capture five NCAA Tournament appearances and develop a reputation for sharp guard coaching and offensive tweaks.
Before his coaching career, Haynes played professionally across Europe, suiting up for clubs in Belgium, Hungary, Germany and Finland, where he honed a deep understanding of diverse playing styles that he now hopes to translate to his new role.
Washington's offensive metrics last season placed them 11th in scoring and 12th in shooting efficiency within the Big Ten, numbers that Haynes is expected to lift through targeted guard development and a more dynamic attack.
His recruitment profile includes a focus on European prospects, a market the Huskies have been eager to expand, and his connections abroad could open new pathways for talent acquisition.
The move comes as the program looks to rebound after a quiet stretch in the NCAA Tournament, last appearing in the 2018‑19 season under Mike Hopkins, and signals a proactive approach to modernizing the roster.