Former Fresno State guard Tyler Johnson, a critical building block in a short-lived resurgence of Bulldogs’ basketball more than a decade ago, is returning to the program as an assistant coach.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to come back to the valley,” Johnson said, in a statement from the athletics department. “I am looking forward to being a part of the transformation of this program.”
Johnson, who played for the Bulldogs from 2011 to 2014, averaged 15.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists in his senior season when Fresno State went 21-18 in the third season under coach Rodney Terry. It was the first time Fresno State had won 20 or more games in a season in six years, and included a run to the championship series of the College Basketball Invitational.
Terry led Fresno State to the NCAA Tournament two seasons later, but the program has been in a steady decline the past three seasons. Coach Vance Walberg went just 6-26 last season, his first at the school, and set a school record for fewest victories in a season.
Johnson was a two-time all-Mountain West Conference selection and went on to play eight seasons in the NBA, playing for the Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns, Philadelphia 76ers and San Antonio Spurs.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Tyler Johnson back to Fresno State,” Walberg said. “As a former Bulldog and a proven professional, Tyler brings tremendous knowledge, passion, and a deep connection to this program. His career through the professional ranks is something our team can benefit from.”