Get ready for an exciting season with the Northern Illinois University men's basketball team! Head coach Rashon Burno has assembled a top-notch staff, and we're about to dive into the details. But first, let's address the elephant in the room: the recent staff changes have sparked some debate among fans. So, let's explore these new additions and see what they bring to the table.
The New Faces on the NIU Basketball Bench
Antwon Jackson, a seasoned assistant coach, joins the Huskies after a successful stint at Murray State. With his expertise, the team aims to replicate the Racers' impressive 17-win season in their inaugural Missouri Valley Conference campaign last year. Jackson's coaching journey began at William & Mary, followed by UMass, Cincinnati, Virginia Tech, and East Carolina. During his time at Cincinnati, the Bearcats dominated, winning two American Athletic Conference Tournament titles and producing AAC Player of the Year awardees Gary Clark and Jarron Cumberland.
And here's where it gets interesting: Jacob Kurtz, initially the Director of Basketball Operations, has been promoted to his current role. Kurtz's journey with the Huskies began four seasons ago, and his experience at UMass, where he held various positions, including Assistant Coach, is a valuable asset. Before that, he contributed to Chattanooga's record-breaking 29 victories in 2025-26, securing both the Southern Conference titles and an NCAA Tournament appearance.
Eric Rwahwire, the Assistant Coach/Director of Player Development, has been making waves at Texas Tech as a graduate assistant. The Red Raiders' impressive 28-win campaign last season, leading them to the Elite Eight, showcases Rwahwire's impact. His collegiate playing career at UC Riverside and the University of Toronto, coupled with his experience with the Uganda National Team, adds a unique perspective to the staff.
Eddie Fernandez, the newest addition to the NIU basketball operations, brings NBA experience from his time with the Washington Wizards. Before that, he honed his skills as a graduate assistant at his alma mater, UTEP, and served as a student manager for four seasons. Fernandez's knowledge and passion for the game will undoubtedly contribute to the team's success.
As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, it's clear that Coach Burno has assembled a diverse and talented staff. But what impact will these changes have on the team's performance? Will the Huskies soar to new heights, or will there be challenges to overcome? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments! Let's discuss and debate the future of Northern Illinois University men's basketball.
