Joe White has accepted a new role as an assistant coach with the South Dakota men's basketball program, bringing a blend of on‑court experience and off‑court leadership to the Jackrabbits.
White spent seven seasons at Idaho State, rising to the position of associate head coach and serving as the team's defensive coordinator. Under his guidance the Bengals posted three of the program's most notable finishes in the Big Sky Conference over the past two decades, while the defense consistently ranked among the nation's best, including a No. 9 spot in the NCAA for opponents' points per game in the 2020‑21 season.
Defensive Innovation and Academic Emphasis
Beyond tactics, White acted as the program's academic liaison, helping elevate the team's classroom performance and contributing to a culture of scholarship that earned recognition for student‑athlete achievement.
His playing days at Southern Oregon University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, and a subsequent professional stint with Club La Salle in Guayaquil, Ecuador, gave him a global perspective that he now shares with his new colleagues.
White also holds a Master's Degree in Physical Education – Athletic Administration from Idaho State, completed in 2023, underscoring his commitment to both coaching excellence and personal development.
Eric Peterson, who oversees the Jackrabbits' staffing decisions, welcomed White's addition, noting that his blend of defensive acumen and academic focus aligns with the program's long‑term goals.