Friends University men’s basketball head coach Nick Jones has announced the hiring of Kellen Marshall as the program’s new assistant coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season.
“I’m excited to welcome Kellen Marshall to our staff, said Jones. “Kellen brings a strong basketball foundation, having learned the game at a high level, along with a relentless work ethic and passion for player development. His experience at Wichita State and his understanding of what it takes to build a winning culture will make an immediate impact on our program.”
Local basketball fans in Wichita are likely familiar with Marshall, who was part of the Wichita State University Shockers men’s basketball team from 2015-21. Marshall first worked as a student manager at WSU for four years and was a part of three NCAA Tournament appearances and one NIT Final Four.
Then in 2019, Marshall became a graduate assistant with WSU and helped the team qualify for two more NCAA Tournaments, including the COVID shortened season that had the program projected to receive a bid.
Marshall heavily focused on skill development with the Shockers and worked with and/or helped develop nine NBA players over his six-year tenure. He also assisted with film breakdown and scouting along with recruiting and other program operations.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to coach at Friends University under the leadership of Coach Jones,” said Marshall. “Coach Jones is one of the top young coaches in the country, and I can’t wait to learn from him daily while helping our student-athletes reach their highest potential on and off of the court.”
The Falcons, coming off consecutive NAIA National Tournament appearances, are set to open the 2026-27 season on Oct. 27 at home vs. Baker University.
