Kansas basketball is bringing back one of its all-time greats. Jacque Vaughn, the former Jayhawks star and NBA head coach, is returning to his alma mater as an assistant coach, head coach Bill Self announced Tuesday.
Vaughn, whose No. 11 jersey hangs in the rafters of Allen Fieldhouse, becomes the first former NBA head coach to join the Kansas staff. He brings 15+ years of NBA coaching experience, having led the Orlando Magic and Brooklyn Nets while mentoring stars like Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and former Jayhawks Markieff Morris and Jalen Wilson.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Jacque and his wife Laura back,” Self said. “He’s a first-class person, a proven coach, and a perfect fit for Kansas basketball. While we’ll miss Norm Roberts, adding someone of Jacque’s caliber is a huge win for our program.”
A Jayhawk Legend Returns
Vaughn, a two-time All-American under Roy Williams (1993-97), remains one of KU’s greatest point guards. He holds the Big Eight’s all-time assists record (804, now 3rd at KU) and was the 1996 Big Eight Player of the Year. Academically, he was the 1997 Academic All-American of the Year—one of only two Jayhawks (with Cole Aldrich) to earn the honor.
His jersey was retired in 2002, and now, 27 years after his final KU game, he’s back to help lead the next generation.
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude to return home,” Vaughn said. “Kansas shaped me, and I can’t wait to contribute to this tradition under Coach Self.”
NBA Pedigree: Champion Player & Coach
After being drafted 27th overall by Utah in 1997, Vaughn played 12 NBA seasons, winning a 2007 championship with the Spurs as a key reserve. Post-retirement, he coached under Gregg Popovich before head-coaching stints with the Magic (2012-15) and Nets (2020-24), leading Brooklyn to two playoff appearances.
Filling Big Shoes
Vaughn replaces Norm Roberts, who retired after 11 years on Self’s staff. He’ll work alongside Kurtis Townsend, Jeremy Case, Joe Dooley, and Chase Buford as Kansas gears up for another title chase.
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