Michigan Wolverine Assistant Justin Joyner Named New Oregon State Men's Basketball Coach

Joyner replaces longtime coach Wayne Tinkle, tasked with rebuilding the Beavers program as they move to the Pac-12 conference.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 10:49pm

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The Oregon State Beavers have hired Michigan Wolverines assistant Justin Joyner as their new head men's basketball coach. Joyner, who spent seven seasons as an assistant at Saint Mary's and the last two at Michigan, replaces Wayne Tinkle, who spent 12 seasons leading the Beavers program. Joyner inherits a team that recently lost to Gonzaga in the NCAA tournament, and will look to rebuild the Beavers as they transition to the Pac-12 conference.

Why it matters

The hiring of Joyner represents a pivotal moment for the Oregon State men's basketball program, as they look to regain relevance in the Pac-12 after years of struggling. Joyner's experience on the West Coast and with elite programs like Michigan and Saint Mary's should help him attract top talent to Corvallis. However, the Beavers face challenges in NIL revenue sharing that could hamper Joyner's ability to rebuild the roster.

The details

Joyner, 38, comes to Oregon State after spending the last two seasons as an assistant coach with the Michigan Wolverines. Prior to that, he served as an assistant at Saint Mary's for seven seasons, helping the Gaels to a 171-60 record during his tenure. Joyner is known as an elite recruiter, with strong ties to the West Coast that should aid him in bringing in top talent to Corvallis.

  • Joyner was hired on March 11, 2026, just days after Oregon State's season ended with a loss to Gonzaga in the NCAA tournament.
  • Joyner will be formally introduced as the new head coach at a press conference on March 14, 2026.

The players

Justin Joyner

The 38-year-old Joyner is the new head coach of the Oregon State men's basketball team, replacing Wayne Tinkle. Joyner comes to Corvallis after serving as an assistant coach at Michigan and Saint Mary's.

Wayne Tinkle

Tinkle was the previous head coach of the Oregon State men's basketball team, spending 12 seasons in Corvallis before stepping down.

Scott Barnes

The athletic director at Oregon State University, Barnes praised Joyner's hiring and believes he can help rebuild the Beavers program.

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What they’re saying

“Our move to the new Pac-12 demands a leader like Justin who has an unmatched commitment, passion and energy. Justin will build a men's basketball program all of Beaver Nation will be proud of.”

— Scott Barnes, Oregon State Athletic Director

“I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to coach Oregon State Men's Basketball. Joining an athletic department that aligns with my beliefs and values is a dream come true. I am very thankful to Athletic DirectorScott Barnes and President Murthy for this special opportunity. My wife Tracy and our daughter Weslee are excited to ingrain ourselves into the University and the Corvallis community whole heartedly. I come to Oregon State ready to empower our student athletes to chase greatness both on and off the court. Go Beavs!”

— Justin Joyner

What’s next

Joyner will be formally introduced as the new Oregon State men's basketball coach at a press conference on March 14, 2026, where he is expected to outline his vision for rebuilding the program.

The takeaway

The hiring of Justin Joyner represents a critical juncture for the Oregon State men's basketball program as they look to regain relevance in the Pac-12 conference. Joyner's strong recruiting ties and experience with elite programs should provide a boost, but he will need to overcome the Beavers' challenges with NIL revenue sharing to fully rebuild the roster and return the team to the NCAA tournament.