Russ Willemsen, a native of Rushville, N.Y., is entering his sixth season as an assistant coach for TSU in the 2023-24 season. With 19 years of experience in coaching, Willemsen previously spent five seasons at South Alabama (2013-2018) and eight seasons at Tennessee Tech (2005-2013).
Willemsen joined the TSU coaching staff, alongside Ben Walker and Jerry Nichols, when Coach Collins took charge prior to the 2018-19 season.
During his tenure at South Alabama, the Jaguars had four players named All-Sun Belt Conference and reached the quarterfinals of the Sun Belt Tournament twice. Under Willemsen's guidance, the team also achieved an impressive home record of 42-31 over five seasons, including notable road victories such as against UNLV. Notably, he worked closely with Ken Williams, a two-time All-Sun Belt selection who made significant contributions to the team's success.
At Tennessee Tech, Willemsen's coaching efforts resulted in the Golden Eagles winning 19 or more games in a season on four occasions. The team's accomplishments included a 20-win campaign in 2010-11, leading to an appearance in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament. In the following season, they achieved 19 wins and another invitation to the CIT. During his time at Tennessee Tech, Willemsen's guidance led to the recognition of 12 All-Ohio Valley Conference performers, including one NBA draft pick and two players who secured spots on NBA Summer League rosters. The Golden Eagles also had four players named to the OVC All-Tournament Team.
In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Willemsen served as the camp director and oversaw the academic progress of the team, contributing to the program's receipt of the 2007 and 2008 OVC Academic Achievement Award. He initially joined the coaching field as an undergrad at Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn., where he worked as a student-assistant for four seasons before transitioning to a part-time role in 2004-05. During his time at Lee, the team achieved notable success, with six players earning spots on NAIA All-America teams and reaching the round of 16 and quarterfinals of the NAIA National Tournament.
Outside of coaching, Willemsen has also made contributions as a writer. He has written articles for CollegeChalktalk.com, including the introductory piece for the site's series on John Wooden titled "Pyramid Tribute: In Memory of John Wooden." Additionally, he has authored articles for BasketballHQ.com.
Willemsen holds a bachelor's degree in physical education and history education, which he earned in 2004 from Lee University. He furthered his education by obtaining a master's degree in instructional leadership from Tennessee Tech in 2007. Willemsen is happily married to his wife, Sarah, and together they have a baby girl named Ruthie.
THE RUSS WILLEMSEN FILE
- 6th Season at TSU in 2023-24
- Alma Mater: Lee (Tenn) '04
- Hometown: Rushville, N.Y.
