Head coach Rob Summers has announced the addition of Dalon King as an assistant coach on his inaugural Cleveland State men’s basketball staff. King brings eight seasons of experience in a variety of roles to Cleveland.
“We’re excited to welcome back Dalon King to Cleveland State and our basketball staff,” said Coach Summers. “Dalon has been part of winning programs at both Missouri and here at Cleveland State, and his background in scouting, analytics, and basketball operations brings tremendous value to our team. He’s played a key role in NCAA Tournament runs, conference championships, and program turnarounds. Dalon is insightful, detail-oriented, and committed to excellence—exactly the kind of person we want in our program as we continue to raise the bar.”
King is very familiar with Cleveland State and the men’s basketball program as he returns for his second stint on staff. He spent five seasons with the program from 2018-22 including his final three seasons under former head coach Dennis Gates. King served as a manager and graduate assistant before being elevated to Assistant Director of Basketball Operations in his final season. He helped the Vikings to the 2021 Horizon League title and an appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
“I’m incredibly grateful and excited to return to Cleveland State as an assistant coach,” added King. “This program holds a special place in my heart—it’s where I began my journey in college basketball and where I’ve been fortunate to be part of championship teams and special moments. I want to thank the administration and Coach Summers for this opportunity. I’m ready to continue to build on the tradition and success of Cleveland State basketball. Go Vikes!”
Most recently King spent the past three seasons working under Gates at the University of Missouri. He served his first two seasons as Coordinator of Scouting and Analytics and most recently as Director of Basketball Operations this past season. King helped the Tigers to two NCAA Tournament appearances during his time at Mizzou. In the 2022-23 season MU recorded its highest win total in 11 years with 25 victories and closed the season with its first NCAA Tournament win in 13 years. Overall King has been a part of two regular season titles and one tournament title in his career.
“Cleveland State is getting one of the bright young minds in college basketball,” said Coach Gates. “Dalon King is a tireless worker and someone who’s earned his opportunity through his dedication and humility. Watching his growth from a graduate assistant to a key member of our staff has been incredibly rewarding. He’s prepared for this next chapter and will be an immediate asset to the program.”
King earned his bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State in history in 2019 and went on to earn a master’s degree in sports management from CSU in 2021. He is joined in Cleveland by his girlfriend Toni Zeigler.
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