Joe Crispin has been named an assistant coach for the Rowan University men’s and women’s basketball programs.
Crispin was a standout player at Pitman High School and Penn State University. He later spent time in the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns.
"I’m thrilled on multiple levels," said Crispin. "It’s the start of my coaching career after many years of focusing on playing. It’s also my community. This is where I call home so I’m really excited to be here. I want to make both programs better and add to the positive culture of basketball. I want to be able to have success on the court and get the community excited about the game."
Crispin has been the owner and director of Crispin Basketball since 2008. The organization has conducted various camps, clinics and leagues for players in grades K-12. Crispin has also personally trained players from the elementary to collegiate levels. He previously enjoyed two stints on the staff of the Penn State Basketball Camp from 1999-2001 and 2010-13. Crispin has played professionally in numerous European countries including Ukraine, Italy, Turkey, Spain, Poland and Greece.
"Joe brings a wealth of experience as well as an enthusiasm and love for the game of basketball," said women’s head coach Gabby Lisella. "He’s played the game extensively at all levels, which will be a huge asset both on our coaching staff and for our players. He loves developing players which can only make us stronger."
Crispin was named to the All-League second team while playing in Italy for Enel Brindisi during the 2009-10 season. The team won the regular season title and reached the final. While in Turkey with Bandirma Banvit from 2007-2009, Crispin was a team captain and a member of the all-star team. He was named to the All-Polish League second team while playing for Anwil Wloclawek in 2004.
In the United States, Crispin was a member of the Pennsylvania Valley Dawgs of the USBL. The team won the league championship under former NBA player Darryl Dawkins. Crispin also saw time with the Kansas City Knights of the ABA. He was the league’s most valuable player for the 2003-04 season. Crispin briefly played for the Southern California Surf (ABA) under Scott Brooks, who is currently the head coach for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Crispin spent part of the 2001-02 NBA season with the Suns and was coached by Scott Skiles. He played in 15 games, averaging 8.6 minutes and 4.6 points. Crispin’s first professional experience was with the Lakers under Hall of Famer Phil Jackson. He saw time in six games during the 2001-02 season.
"This is a wonderful opportunity to add someone young and enthusiastic with a lot of new ideas, especially someone with NBA experience," said men’s head coach Joe Cassidy. "I think Joe will bring some fresh ideas and fresh enthusiasm to the program. I think he’ll be great for us."
Crispin was a four-year starter at Penn State from 1997-2001. He was named to the Big Ten All-Conference team twice and ended his career with 1,986 points. During Crispin’s time in "Happy Valley", the Nittany Lions reached the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Division I Tournament and made two Final Four appearances in the NIT. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in telecommunications.
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