Portland State University announced this week that Will Graves has been appointed to its basketball coaching staff as an assistant, bringing a blend of playing experience and graduate‑level preparation to the program.
A Family Legacy in Oregon Basketball
The new assistant’s roots run deep in the state’s basketball tradition; his father, Kelly Graves, has served for years as the head coach of the University of Oregon’s women’s team, a program that has seen sustained success under his guidance.
Graves arrives after a stint as a graduate assistant at the University of Florida, where he also completed a Master’s Degree in Sports Management, a credential that reflects his commitment to the analytical side of the game.
Playing Career and Accolades
His playing career spanned stints at Gonzaga University and Southern Oregon University, where he earned honorable‑mention All‑Cascade Conference honors during the 2022‑23 season, underscoring his impact on the court.
A 2018 graduate of South Eugene High School, Graves grew up in the Eugene area before pursuing his collegiate ambitions, a trajectory that now circles back to the Portland State campus.
Looking Ahead
Coaches and teammates alike expect Graves to contribute immediately, leveraging his familiarity with Oregon talent and his recent graduate‑level training to help the Vikings compete at a higher level in the coming seasons.