News Summary

Yale men’s basketball coach James Jones has been appointed to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Board of Directors. This appointment follows his keynote speech at the GametimeCT High School Sports Awards in Bridgeport, Connecticut. As the longest-serving Ivy League coach, Jones brings a wealth of experience and commitment to his new role, which he has taken on just weeks after leading the Bulldogs to an NCAA tournament appearance. This news marks a significant milestone in Jones’s career and is expected to enhance Yale’s standing in college basketball.

Bridgeport Welcomes Yale Head Coach James Jones as New Leader on NABC Board

Bridgeport, Connecticut has recently been buzzing with excitement as Yale men’s basketball coach James Jones takes on a significant new role within the world of college basketball. On July 15, 2025, Jones graced the stage as the keynote speaker at the GametimeCT High School Sports Awards, held at the picturesque Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater. This event celebrated young talent and highlighted the hard work of high school athletes in the region.

From the NCAA Tournament to Board Director

Jones isn’t merely basking in the glow of his recent public appearance. He was appointed to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Board of Directors just a few weeks earlier, with the university announcing the exciting news on July 1, 2025. As one of only nine coaches selected for this leadership team, Jones will step into an important role overseeing the organization’s day-to-day operations. His appointment is sure to bolster Yale’s reputation in the competitive landscape of collegiate sports.

The Company He Keeps

Joining Jones on the board are some familiar and accomplished names from the college basketball world, including Jon Scheyer from Duke, Mark Pope from Kentucky, Scott Drew of Baylor, and Micah Shrewsberry representing Notre Dame. These seasoned coaches will work with notable figures like John Calipari of Arkansas, Mark Few from Gonzaga, Tom Izzo of Michigan State, and Shaka Smart from Marquette. Together, they will strive to enhance the landscape of college basketball, reflecting their deep commitment to the sport.

Building a Legacy

With an impressive track record under his belt, Coach Jones is set to enter his 27th season leading the Yale Bulldogs. His dedication has paid off, as he has guided the team to numerous accolades, including four Ivy League Tournament titles in 2019, 2022, 2024, and 2025, and an NCAA Tournament bid in 2025. The Bulldogs’ season is eagerly anticipated, with their first game against Navy scheduled for November 7, 2025.

As the all-time winningest men’s basketball coach at Yale with a total of 418 wins, Jones continues to build on his legacy while providing mentorship to young athletes. He began his illustrious journey at Yale in 1995 as an assistant coach before moving to the top position in 1999. It’s worth noting he has been the longest-serving coach in the Ivy League during this time.

Turning the Tide in the NCAA Tournament

Jones has a knack for making waves in the NCAA Tournament, with Yale’s basketball team making its eighth appearance this past March. Their previous history includes tournament showings in 1949, 1957, 1962, 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2024. While the Bulldogs hold a record of 2-9 in NCAA Tournament play, their glorious moments include standout wins against Baylor in 2016 and Auburn in 2024.

A Bright Future Ahead

As the Bulldogs prepare for the upcoming season, eyes will be on Coach James Jones, whose commitment to his players and the sport continues to shine brightly. Being on the NABC Board of Directors will not only elevate his standing in the basketball community but will also likely benefit Yale and its athletes in the long run. With new challenges and responsibilities on the horizon, the future looks promising for Jones and the Bulldogs.

College basketball fans in Bridgeport and beyond have every reason to cheer as they witness this new chapter in Jones’s career unfold. The excitement for the upcoming season is already building, and it is bound to be an eventful journey for both Coach Jones and the Yale Bulldogs!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Additional Resources