Washington State Hires Orlando Johnson as Men's Basketball GM, Assistant Coach

Washington State University has hired Orlando Johnson as the new general manager and assistant coach for its men's basketball team, marking his first coaching role after a 13-year professional playing career. Johnson, a California native and Palma High School graduate, played in the NBA for the Indiana Pacers and had an extensive international career spanning countries such as Spain, Mongolia, the Philippines, China, Russia, Lebanon, Bosnia, Taiwan, and Australia. He brings valuable experience in player development and team management, and he is reuniting with longtime friend and WSU Head Coach David Riley, with whom he played youth basketball. Johnson expressed excitement about contributing to the program's roster decisions and supporting student-athletes on and off the court. His appointment is expected to enhance Washington State's basketball culture and competitiveness as he transitions from a record-holding collegiate career at Loyola Marymount and UC Santa Barbara to coaching. Coach Riley praised Johnson's professional and global basketball experience as a significant asset to the team.