Sept. 9, 2008

Deidre Jones Named Director of Women's Basketball Operations

    Youngstown -- Deidre Jones has been named Director of Basketball Operations for the Youngstown State women's basketball program, YSU head coach Cindy Martin announced.
    Jones, who spent the last three seasons as a student manager for the women's basketball team at the University of Michigan, will assist with film exchange, travel, on-campus recruiting and various administrative duties.
    "Adding a Director of Basketball Operations to our coaching staff is a true blessing," Martin said. "Deidre was very eager to get her foot in the door and become a collegiate women's basketball coach, and she will spend this season assisting our staff in the office. She will bring a fresh perspective as a recent college graduate, and we are excited that YSU will be the start of her coaching career."
    Jones is also thrilled to join Martin's quest to lead the program to the top of the Horizon League.
    "I am excited to join a great coaching staff that has a lot of experience," Jones said. "I'm sure I will learn a great deal from all of them. I love the community and campus, and I know that this is the right place for me."
    Originally a walk-on for the Wolverines before knee injuries ended her playing career, Jones stayed with the program as a student manager from 2005-08. Her responsibilities in that capacity included filming practice and games, working summer camps, assisting with team gear and various responsibilities during practice.
    Prior to her time in Ann Arbor, Mich., Jones played two seasons as a guard at Wabash Valley College in Mt. Carmel, Ill. During her sophomore season in 2004-05, she was named an NJCAA Academic All-American.
    A Michigan native, she played her high school basketball at Mercy High School in Farmington Hills, Mich.