Kansas is bringing a familiar face—and a serious coaching résumé—back to Allen Fieldhouse.
Former All-American point guard Jacque Vaughn is joining Bill Self’s staff as an assistant coach, KU announced on Tuesday afternoon. Vaughn, whose No. 11 jersey hangs in the rafters, returns to Lawrence after over 15 years in the NBA coaching ranks, including stints as head coach of both the Orlando Magic and Brooklyn Nets.
He replaces longtime assistant Norm Roberts, who retired earlier this month.
Vaughn is the first former NBA head coach to join the Kansas staff and brings a rare blend of college pedigree and professional experience. He’s coached some of the NBA’s biggest stars—Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Ben Simmons, and DeAndre Jordan—and was part of the Spurs’ 2007 NBA championship team as a player.
As a Jayhawk from 1993–97, Vaughn was the engine behind Roy Williams’ high-powered offenses and finished his career with 804 assists—still third in school history—and earned Big Eight Player of the Year honors in 1996.
Off the court, he was a two-time Academic All-American of the Year and won the Arthur Ashe Jr. Scholar-Athlete Award.
Self called Vaughn “a tremendous Jayhawk with a unique and impressive résumé” and praised his character and professionalism.
“I’m truly honored and overwhelmed with excitement to return to my alma mater and join Coach Self’s staff as an assistant coach,” Vaughn said. “The game of basketball has provided me the incredible privilege to mentor, coach, and compete alongside some of the best in the game. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to bring those experiences back to the school that means so much to me. It’s a blessing to once again be part of the Jayhawk tradition.”
Now, after a decade-plus in the NBA—including playoff runs and a brief stint coaching former Jayhawk Jalen Wilson in Brooklyn—Vaughn returns to the college game with the program that helped launch his career.
For Kansas, it’s more than a feel-good reunion—it’s a savvy hire. Vaughn’s experience in NBA player development and locker room management could pay dividends in an era where elite programs must navigate NIL, the transfer portal, and professional expectations.
Simply put: KU just added another heavy-hitter to the bench.
