Mississippi State’s men’s basketball program unveiled its coaching cadre for the upcoming 2026‑27 season, a blend of fresh graduate assistants and seasoned support staff as the Bulldogs prepare to tip off against Tennessee Tech on November 2.
A new era of staff development
Head coach Chris Jans, the only coach in school history to guide the Bulldogs to the NCAA Tournament in three of his first four seasons, outlined the new additions during a recent staff announcement.
Dylan Sortillo, a veteran of programs including Illinois‑Chicago, Dartmouth and Florida Southwestern State, will serve as director of operations, bringing administrative expertise to the role.
Jonathan Comer, a Caledonia native who previously assisted at Belhaven where the team captured its first NCAA Division III Tournament berth, joins the staff to contribute on the court.
Damien Davis, the older brother of former NCAA Tournament player Dashawn Davis who thrived under Jans, will work as a graduate assistant, adding depth to player development.
Jalen Gibbs, another graduate assistant, arrives after stints coaching at North Point High School in Maryland and a collegiate career at Drake, Mount Saint Mary’s and Jacksonville State.
Zahree Harrison, who has experience as an assistant at Lansdale High School and as a 15U coach for the Klow Elite AAU program in Pennsylvania, rounds out the graduate assistant group.
Noah King, an NJCAA All‑America standout at Kirkwood Community College where Jans captured the 1998 national championship, will also be part of the support staff.
Tonny Trocha‑Morelos, who logged 132 SEC appearances for Texas A&M and helped the Aggies reach two Sweet 16s and claim a 2015‑16 regular‑season title, will contribute as a graduate assistant.
The Bulldogs open the season against Tennessee Tech on November 2 at Humphrey Coliseum, marking the start of a campaign that promises continuity and fresh energy under Jans.