Lansing Sun

Michigan State University has announced the appointment of Saddi Washington as an assistant coach for its men's basketball team. Head coach Tom Izzo confirmed the addition, highlighting Washington's deep ties to the Lansing area and Michigan State.

"I'm very excited to welcome Saddi to our staff and to bring him back home to the Lansing area," Izzo said. "I've known him since he was in junior high school, where he had Doug Herner as a teacher and I've had a great relationship with him and his family for a long, long time. Obviously, he's got some deep ties at Michigan State as his parents and his brother are all alums and his father, Stan, was one of the greats of our program."

Washington comes with extensive coaching experience, having spent nearly two decades in various roles. Most recently, he served eight years at the University of Michigan under coaches John Beilein and Juwan Howard. During his tenure there, he contributed significantly to defensive strategies and player development.

"Saddi is not only a real and genuine person, but he's an incredible coach who has had a great career working for some great people," Izzo continued. "We're excited to welcome Saddi back home and to have his wife, Channon, and their two kids, Sidney and Caleb, as part of the Spartan Family."

Washington expressed gratitude for joining Michigan State: "I'm very thankful to join the program at Michigan State and to come back home," Washington said. "My family and I are excited for this move... I've followed the Michigan State program since I was a kid... I'm excited to get going."

His coaching journey began after a professional playing career overseas and in various American leagues. He started as a volunteer assistant at Romulus High School before moving on to Oakland University where he eventually became associate head coach.

While at Oakland under Greg Kampe's leadership, Washington helped achieve multiple successful seasons including NCAA Tournament appearances. His own playing days were marked by achievements at Western Michigan University where he earned numerous accolades.

In addition to welcoming Washington, Coach Izzo also announced promotions within his staff: Doug Wojcik has been elevated to associate head coach while Jon Borovich and Austin Thornton join Thomas Kelley as assistant coaches.