I mentioned this one in the DAILY DIRT back on Monday. It’s now official…Sterling Johnson has been named as the head basketball coach at Tiffin University. Here’s the release from the school:
Sterling Johnson has been named Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Tiffin University.
Prior to coming to Tiffin, Johnson coached for two seasons at Grand Valley State University.
In his first season at GVSU in 2024-25, Johnson helped lead the Lakers to a 16-13 overall record and 12-8 GLIAC mark. Two Lakers earned All-GLIAC second team honors and three were named to the All-GLIAC defensive team which was the most out of any teams in the conference.
Prior to coming to GVSU, Johnson spent one season as a graduate assistant at Virginia Tech. During his time there, he helped the Hokies reach the second round of the National Invitational Tournament (NIT) before losing to Ohio State.
Before arriving at Virginia Tech, Johnson gained experience at Northwood University, Schoolcraft College, the University of Northwestern Ohio, and Defiance College.
Johnson was a four-year letterwinner at Saginaw Valley State from 2012 to 2016, appearing in 108 games. During his senior campaign in 2015-16, he was part of the winningest team in program history, which advanced to the Elite Eight while he shot 46% from the field and 43% from three-point range that season.
He earned his bachelor’s degree from Saginaw Valley State University in 2016 and went on to obtain a Master of Business Administration from Defiance College in 2019. Most recently, he received a degree in Agricultural Life Sciences with a focus on Education from Virginia Tech in 2024.
“From the beginning of the search process, Sterling separated himself as one of the top candidates, and after bringing him to campus, it became clear he was the right coach for our program and university,” said Athletic Director Kelly Daniel. “Sterling brings a proven culture of success, an elite basketball mind, and a strong commitment to accountability and player development. We are excited for him to begin working with our student-athletes, building relationships, and establishing a culture that will sustain long-term success and continue elevating our program. We are excited to welcome Coach Sterling Johnson to Dragon Nation!”
“I am incredibly honored and excited to lead Tiffin University men’s basketball,” said Johnson. “I’m looking forward to the challenge of growing the program and building a culture our university can be proud of. I can’t wait to get to work.”
