A Strategic Build‑Up for the Mastodons
Purdue Fort Wayne’s men’s basketball program has unveiled a series of staff additions that signal a focused effort to strengthen its coaching depth for the upcoming 2026‑27 season. The announcements come as the Mastodons prepare for a high‑profile exhibition contest against Purdue on October 22, a game that will serve as the first public test of the new roster.
Matthew Ambrose, who previously served as a graduate assistant and Director of Player Development, has been elevated to Assistant Coach – Player Development Coordinator. In his new capacity he will oversee player workouts, performance growth and the day‑to‑day development of the roster, drawing on his experience both on the court and in the classroom.
Dylan Parker joins the Mastodons as Assistant Coach – Director of Recruiting Operations. He brings a résumé that includes stints at Santa Clara University and Ohio State University, where he honed his ability to identify and secure top talent.
The hires also include graduate assistants Jonathan DeJurnett and Jason Huber. DeJurnett was a key member of the 2022 Horizon League regular‑season championship team, while Huber earned the 2024‑25 Midwest Conference Elite 20 Award and Academic All‑District honors, underscoring his blend of athletic and academic excellence.
A New Chapter Begins
With a blend of veteran insight and fresh perspectives, the Mastodons are positioning themselves for a promising campaign. The additions reflect a deliberate strategy to enhance recruiting pipelines, player development and overall program stability as the team gears up for its first exhibition game.