New Faces Bring NBA Experience and Analytic Vision
East Carolina University announced that Tyler Johnson and Jackson Stepanian will join the Pirates' men's basketball staff for the 2026‑27 season, reinforcing the program with a blend of professional playing experience and contemporary video analytics.
Johnson, who spent the 2025‑26 season as an assistant at Fresno State, will serve as assistant coach and director of player development. His nine‑year NBA career included stints with the Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers and San Antonio Spurs, where he shared the court with Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Kevin Durant, James Harden and Kyrie Irving.
During his time in Miami, Johnson was part of two playoff runs and later helped the Nets achieve back‑to‑back playoff appearances while playing alongside Durant, Harden and Irving. He also competed overseas in the NBL and remains ranked 20th all‑time in Fresno State history with 1,346 career points.
Head coach Michael Schwartz praised Johnson's NBA pedigree and his ability to translate that knowledge to the collegiate level, noting that the veteran's professional insight will have a strong impact on the players.
Stepanian, a recent graduate of the University of Rhode Island, will serve as the team's video coordinator. Over four years at Rhode Island he worked as an assistant video coordinator and student manager, handling practice film for USA Basketball teams and earning a degree in sports media and communications.
Schwartz highlighted Stepanian's enthusiasm and work ethic, emphasizing that his analytical background will complement the program's developmental goals and help the team stay at the forefront of modern scouting techniques.