A New Chapter for Dekker
Sam Dekker, a former Wisconsin Badgers star and 11‑year NBA veteran, has been named assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks men’s basketball program, a move announced by head coach Lamont Paris on Tuesday.
During his collegiate career from 2012 to 2015, Dekker helped the Badgers reach the Elite Eight, scoring a career‑high 27 points in a victory over Arizona, and contributed 16 points in a historic upset of undefeated Kentucky in the national semifinals.
From Badgers to Global Veteran
After being selected 18th overall by the Houston Rockets in 2015, the forward spent the next decade competing abroad, logging stints in Turkey, the United Kingdom with London’s professional circuit, and Spain, where he honed a versatile skill set that blends scoring, rebounding and playmaking.
Paris Sees a Development Asset
Paris, who coached Dekker during his final college season, highlighted the former Badger’s reputation as a mentor on the floor, noting that his deep understanding of player development will be a major factor in shaping the Gamecocks’ emerging talent.
The hiring underscores South Carolina’s intent to blend seasoned international experience with home‑grown expertise, a strategy that could accelerate the team’s growth as it aims for a resurgence in the competitive SEC landscape.