Gannon University men’s basketball coach Easton Bazzoli has filled out his coaching staff with the addition of JC Hawkins as an assistant coach. Bazzoli reached out to his former team to bring in Hawkins, who served as a graduate assistant coach at Union University in Tennessee the last two years.

Bazzoli served as an assistant coach at Union before joining the Gannon staff a year ago. He was elevated to head coach in April. The two served on the Union staff in 2022-23 and prior to that Bazzoli coached Hawkins, who played for Union from 2017-22.

 “I was fortunate to get to both coach and work with JC for six years at Union,” Bazzoli commented. “He was a phenomenal and cerebral player that we always knew was going to turn into a great coach. His impact at Union was elite in both roles and he was a no brainer hire to join the Golden Knight staff with his ability to impact young men. JC is an elite relationship builder that cares about the student-athlete in all areas of life. Really excited for him to move to Erie!”

Hawkins was a 6-foot-6 forward for Union. A native of Independence, Ky. and a former standout Simon Kenton, Hawkins played in 117 games at Union with 67 starts. He totaled 500 career points and 347 rebounds.  

“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and excited to continue the success that Coach Fee and Coach Bazzoli brought back last year,” noted Hawkins. “Coach Bazzoli and I have worked together in the past and I’m excited to reunite with him. Very thankful for this opportunity and excited to get to know the Gannon fanbase. Go Knights!”

Hawkins graduated in May 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management with an Emphasis in Marketing from Union University. He received his Master of Business Administration from Union in May 2024.

https://gannonsports.com/news/2024/5/13/hawkins-joins-mens-basketball-coaching-staff.aspx