More big coaching news for Penn State hoops following the Rhoades hire

Tuesday night, news broke that the Nittany Lions would be bringing in a veteran head coach that had seen success at every stop. Less than 24-hours later, Mike Rhoades — the former head coach of the VCU Rams — was officially introduced as the new head coach of Penn State basketball. Before the day was done, more big coaching news broke for the Nittany Lions: the first assistant coaching hire that Mike Rhoades has made is a big one. Former Penn State star Joe Crispin, who helped lead the Nittany Lions to a Sweet 16 in 2001.

new from @MarkXBrennan on @Lions247: Former Penn State basketball star Joe Crispin joining new coach Mike Rhoades’ staffhttps://t.co/8zF4KwF3NK

— Daniel Gallen (@danieljtgallen) March 29, 2023

Mike Rhoades bringing in a special addition to the Penn State basketball coaching staff

Joe Crispin — one of the more notable Penn State basketball alumni — will be joining Mike Rhoades’ new-look Nittany Lion coaching staff. For the past few seasons, Crispin has held a head coaching roll at the Division 3 level, compiling an impressive 114-54 overall record with Rowan College (NJ). Now, for the first time in over 20 years, Crispin will return to the sideline of Penn State basketball in hopes of establishing the Nittany Lions as one of the top programs in the Big Ten.

Mike Rhoades is known for his defensive basketball; however, the Joe Crispin-led Rowan College team averaged over 93 points per game last season, meaning his offensive skillset should balance out with Rhoades’ defensive style. Similar to what Micah Shrewsberry did during his time on Matt Painter’s staff at Purdue, don’t be surprised if Crispin steps into an offensive coordinator role next winter as Penn State looks to make a second-straight tournament run.

Crispin seems like a perfect hire for Penn State basketball, and is a great addition to the inaugural Mike Rhoades staff in State College.

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