Northern Michigan head men’s basketball coach Matt Majkrzak has named John-Michael Hughes as an assistant coach for the upcoming season. John-Michael joins the Wildcat family after serving as a graduate assistant at the University of Southern California, bringing strong connections and respected touch points across the amateur, collegiate, and professional basketball ecosystem.
“Being able to bring in someone with John-Michael’s background will be vitally important to our program,” said Majkrzak. “He’s been around some of the best coaches in college basketball and it was immediately clear that he not only learned an incredible amount but has formed his own strong convictions for what it takes to be successful. When you combine his strong work ethic and passion for the game, we know he’s going to have an incredible coaching career, and we are thrilled it’s starting at Northern Michigan.”
“I am incredibly thankful to Coach Majkrzak for giving me the opportunity to start my lifelong dream of becoming a college basketball coach,” John-Michael Hughes stated. “The opportunity to learn from Coach Majkrzak, at a program that has had so much success in recent years is everything I could wish for. I am excited to work with all the players and get to know all the fans in the community. I promise to give my all for the Wildcat family on and off the court.”
In his time at USC under coach Andy Enfield, John-Michael was entrusted to work holistically across all aspects of the program but with specific emphasis in player development. He worked with players such as Isaiah Collier, Bronny James, and Boogie Ellis, two selections in the 2024 NBA Draft. He also was a major contributor in scouting and recruiting, and played an integral role in the transition for coach Eric Musselman to USC.
Prior to USC, John-Michael was a basketball student-athlete, first playing for legendary coach Tubby Smith at High Point University from 2018-22. During that time, he was named a Millis Scholar-Athlete and served as a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Following that, John-Michael also spent a year playing at The Citadel under coach Ed Conroy while earning a master’s degree in Sports Management. Beyond his contributions on the court, he served an integral part laying the foundation for Coach Conroy’s first year return as head coach.
He is also a graduate of the world-renowned IMG Academy where he served as a team captain on a roster that featured multiple NBA players.
What they are saying about John-Michael Hughes
“John-Michael was invaluable in our transition to USC. His capacity for work and intelligence will make him an incredibly successful coach, and he will have an immediate impact on the Northern Michigan program.”
– Eric Musselman, USC Head Coach
“I’m super excited for Northern Michigan and John-Michael Hughes. Coach Hughes is a terrific coach and an even better person. The players and program at Northern Michigan will benefit from his passion for the game and his genuine care for developing players in all facets of life.”
– Ed Conroy, Citadel Head Coach
“John-Michael is a true pro! Incredible work ethic, sharp and determined. His spirit, determination and experience will make Northern Michigan a better program. The players and staff will benefit from his commitment to doing whatever it takes to be the best!”
– Chris Capko, SMU Associate Head Coach
