At 32 years old, director of basketball operations KT Harrell is hardly an elder statesman for the Michigan men’s basketball staff. In fact, by the numbers, he’s technically the baby of the Wolverines’ group.
Finishing his basketball career just five years ago, Harrell’s ascension to some of the highest heights in the college basketball world has been both rapid and earned. In an ever-changing collegiate environment, Harrell sees his youth as one of his greatest coaching tools.
“When I got the opportunity with coach (Dusty May), I think he just knew that I can relate to the guys,” Harrell said Tuesday on the Defend the Block Podcast. “Obviously the ops part of it, I tend to do that to full capacity. But I think he knows that me being not too far removed from playing that I could definitely have a voice with the guys and be able to help them, help direct them — sort of a mentorship role.”
Emphasizing an ability to connect with his players, Harrell’s unique skill set is derived not only from his youth but also from a lengthy playing career. Compared to his fellow staff members, such as strength and conditioning coach Matt Aldred, who never played organized basketball, Harrell’s playing background gives the staff just one more individualized perspective on the game.
One that, in its own way, Harrell hopes can resonate with his players.
Dusty May Promo!
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