Oregon State Hires Michigan's Justin Joyner as Men's Basketball Coach

Joyner looks to turn around Beavers program after recent struggles

Mar. 11, 2026 at 7:38pm

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Oregon State University has hired Justin Joyner, previously an assistant coach at the University of Michigan, as the new head coach of their men's basketball team. Joyner is tasked with reviving the Beavers program after several disappointing seasons.

Why it matters

Oregon State's men's basketball team has struggled in recent years, failing to make the NCAA tournament since 2018. The hiring of Joyner, an up-and-coming coach with a strong pedigree, signals the university's commitment to rebuilding the program and returning it to national prominence.

The details

Joyner, 39, spent the past five seasons as an assistant coach at Michigan, helping the Wolverines reach the NCAA tournament three times. Prior to that, he was the head coach at a small Division III program in Illinois for four seasons. Joyner is known as an excellent recruiter and developer of talent, traits the Beavers hope will translate to their roster.

  • Joyner was hired on March 11, 2026.
  • He will begin his tenure as Oregon State's head coach immediately.

The players

Justin Joyner

The new head coach of the Oregon State men's basketball team, previously an assistant at the University of Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“It is vitally important that we create momentum and an upward trajectory for this program.”

— Justin Joyner, Head Coach, Oregon State Men's Basketball

What’s next

Joyner will begin assembling his coaching staff and evaluating the current Oregon State roster ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

The hiring of Justin Joyner represents a fresh start for the Oregon State men's basketball program, as they look to rebuild and return to the NCAA tournament after several down years.