Justin Walker has been promoted to assistant basketball coach at Southern Illinois. Previously, he served as the Director of Basketball Operations for two seasons and one year as the graduate assistant for Saluki Basketball. He replaces Terrance McGee who became an assistant at Milwaukee earlier this summer.

“Behind the scenes, Justin has been doing the thankless jobs that no one but the head coach really appreciates,” said Saluki head coach Barry Hinson said. “At the same time, he’s been involved in every aspect of our program and has earned this opportunity. We’re fortunate to have a coach of his caliber already in our system.”

In his administrative role, Walker was responsibile for team operations, including team travel, academic support, summer camps and fund-raisers.

Walker made previous coaching stops as an assistant coach at Moraine Valley Junior College (2012-13) and Waubonsie Valley High School (2013-14). Moraine Valley was 31-6 and finished as national runner-up during Walker’s season on the staff. Walkers coaching resume also includes three years as a director of operations at the Illinois Basketball Academy, where he was also a skills trainer and AAU coach helping more than 10 players earn NCAA Division 1 scholarships.

“Justin has established great relationships with our players and adds another bright young mind to our basketball staff,” said Hinson.

Walker earned his Bachelors of Arts in Exercise Sports Science/Kinesiology from Carthage College in 2010 and a Bachelors of Science from Eastern Illinois in 2012 receiving his teaching certification in Physical Education.

“I’m blessed for the opportunity to assist on Coach Hinson’s staff and work for a program that has produced so many outstanding teams and coaches,” Walker said.