Overview
- Cooper, introduced Wednesday at a campus news conference, was promoted from associate coach to become Cal State LA’s 14th men’s head coach.
- He replaces Jim Saia, who led the Golden Eagles for 10 seasons and announced the 2025–26 season would be his last after a 9-18 year.
- He said the team’s identity will rest on his “five Ds” — determination, dedication, desire, discipline and decision-making — with an emphasis on defense and teamwork.
- He also set goals to increase fundraising, strengthen ties with the Los Angeles community and grow fan support to help recruiting.
- A Hall of Famer and five-time NBA champion, Cooper brings WNBA and G League title experience in what coverage described as a splashy hire that could raise a Division II program’s profile and player draw.