Justin Gainey, a former standout player for State, has returned to the program as head coach after stints at Appalachian State, Santa Clara, Arizona, Marquette, Tennessee and other institutions. His recent appointment has been welcomed by fans and analysts alike, who note his focus on relationship building and prudent personnel decisions.
A Focus on Relationships
Unlike many coaches who chase personal publicity, Gainey emphasizes trust with current and former players, seeking to cement loyalty that can translate into on‑court cohesion. He has retained Patrick Stacy, the analytics‑focused assistant general manager, signaling a commitment to data‑driven decision making.
The coaching staff he has assembled reflects a blend of experience and fresh perspective. New additions include recruiter Alvin Brooks, offensive coordinator Matthew Driscoll, strategist Anthony Goins, player development specialist Riley Collins and European liaison Ognjen Vasiljević. Each hire was chosen to address specific gaps in the program’s infrastructure.
Gainey’s coaching pedigree is rooted in mentorship under notable figures such as Herb Sendek, Sean Miller, Steve Wojciechowski and Rick Barnes. These relationships have informed his approach to player development and strategic planning.
Looking ahead, Gainey says the program’s success will be measured by the strength of its community rather than individual accolades. By prioritizing smart hiring and long‑term player relationships, he aims to position State for sustained competitiveness in the coming seasons.