The Edinboro Athletics Department Thursday introduced new head men's basketball coach Justin Jennings. He becomes the 12th head coach in program history.

"It's surreal the opportunity to run my own program, but it's even more surreal that I get to do it at a special place like Edinboro," Jennings said following his introduction"

Joined by his wife, children, parents, and brother, the new Fighting Scots bench boss laid out his expectations for the program heading int his first year.

"We want to play an up-tempo, fun style of play, play with pace and space, and have a bunch of guys that have position flexibility and can do multiple things. I think you are going to see some guys that play with an edge and bring an excitement to McComb Fieldhouse."

Jennings spent the last seven seasons as an assistant with the Dragons program. He was part of the staff that guided Drexel to its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 25 years in 2021. According to the athletics website, Jennings worked primarily with guards. 

“We are excited to have Justin join our staff and lead the men’s basketball program,” said Director of Athletics Dr. Katherine Robbins. “Justin’s basketball knowledge, extensive experience at the Division I level, and high-energy personality will help us push Fighting Scot basketball forward. He is committed not only to excellence on the court but also in the classroom and in the community.” 

Before his time at Drexel, Jennings spent two years at Army West Point. During his stint at West Point, Jennings and the staff helped Army to its first postseason appearance since Mike Krzyzewski guided the Black Knights to the playoffs in 1978.

Jennings was the head coach for three seasons at the United States Military Academy Prep School for three seasons before his stop at Army. He previously served as a head coach for three seasons at Carnegie Mellon. The Tartans secured their first NCAA Tournament victory in program history during the 2008-09 season

Jennings is no stranger to Erie or Western Pennsylvania. He spent four seasons as a player at Penn State Behrend. He finished third all-time in career assists. The Lions made two NCAA appearances along with two ECAC births. He followed his playing career at Penn State Behrend by joining the bench as an assistant coach. 

Jennings played his high school basketball at Seneca Valley. 

“I could not be more excited to get back to Western Pennsylvania,” Jennings said. My connections to the area and Edinboro are deeply rooted. The opportunity to build a family-based program in such a unique environment is one I could not pass up.”