Ep. 57 welcomes new assistant coach Evan Bradds!
Evan Bradds, a former standout at Belmont University, has rapidly ascended the ranks of basketball coaching. His journey from a prolific college player to an influential NBA assistant coach showcases a blend of talent, dedication, and strategic insight. As of May 2025, Bradds has been appointed as an assistant coach for the Duke University men’s basketball team, succeeding Jai Lucas. This move marks a significant milestone in his coaching career.
Born and raised in Jamestown, Ohio, Bradds showcased his basketball prowess early on. At Belmont University, he became a dominant force in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC). From 2013 to 2017, Bradds earned the OVC Player of the Year title twice (2016, 2017) and set the school’s NCAA Division I era scoring record with 1,921 points. His remarkable field goal percentage of .667 ranks sixth in NCAA Division I history.
After college, Bradds pursued a professional basketball career. He played for the Ohio Kings in the American Basketball Association (ABA), where he continued to refine his skills and gain valuable experience on the court. His time in the ABA provided him with insights into the professional game, laying the foundation for his transition into coaching.
Bradds’ coaching journey began in 2017 when he joined the Boston Celtics organization. Starting as an assistant coach and video coordinator for the Maine Red Claws, Boston’s NBA G League affiliate, he quickly made an impact. His analytical skills and understanding of player development led to his promotion to the Celtics’ player enhancement staff under head coaches Brad Stevens and Ime Udoka. During his tenure, Bradds contributed to the growth of players like Grant Williams and Robert Williams.
In 2022, Bradds joined the Utah Jazz as an assistant coach under head coach Will Hardy. He played a pivotal role in player development, working closely with talents such as Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler. Additionally, Bradds served as the head coach for the Jazz’s Summer League team in 2023, further honing his leadership and coaching skills.
In May 2025, Bradds was appointed as an assistant coach for Duke University’s men’s basketball team. Head coach Jon Scheyer praised Bradds for his “unbelievable basketball mind,” NBA player development experience, and his ability to build meaningful relationships with players—qualities that align with Duke’s core culture.
Bradds’ appointment is seen as a strategic move to bridge the gap between college basketball and the NBA, providing Duke players with insights and guidance on preparing for professional careers. His experience with NBA teams equips him to offer realistic perspectives on the demands and expectations of professional basketball.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bradds values his personal life. He is married to MacKenzie Bradds, and the couple has relocated to Durham, North Carolina, as he embarks on this new chapter with Duke University.
Evan Bradds’ journey from a college basketball standout to an assistant coach at a prestigious program like Duke University underscores his commitment to the sport and his continuous growth as a coach. His blend of playing experience, analytical acumen, and player development expertise positions him as a valuable asset to Duke’s coaching staff and a promising figure in the future of basketball coaching.
