LAKELAND, FL — Florida Polytechnic University has named former NBA champion Dennis Hopson as the inaugural head coach of its new men’s basketball program, bringing nearly four decades of playing and coaching experience to the University’s growing athletics department.
Hopson, who won an NBA championship with the 1991 Chicago Bulls alongside Michael Jordan, joins Florida Poly after leading Lourdes University from 2019 to 2024. During his tenure, the Gray Wolves won nearly 100 games, advanced to three consecutive national tournaments, and achieved a 99% student-athlete graduation rate.
A standout collegiate player at Ohio State University, Hopson earned Consensus Second-Team All-American honors, was named Big Ten Player of the Year, and received First-Team All-Big Ten recognition in 1987. He was selected by the New Jersey Nets in the first round of the 1987 NBA Draft.
His professional playing career included stops with the New Jersey Nets (1987-1990), Chicago Bulls (1990-1991), Sacramento Kings (1991-1992), and numerous international teams in Spain, France, the Philippines, Turkey, Israel, and Venezuela.
Hopson’s coaching career began as an assistant at Northwood University from 2007 to 2009 before serving as an assistant coach at Bowling Green State University from 2009 to 2014. He later coached Bedford High School before taking over at Lourdes University.
Florida Poly Athletic Director Derek Lower said Hopson’s championship pedigree, leadership, and commitment to student-athlete success make him the ideal person to lead the program into its inaugural season.
Recruiting is already underway, with Hopson emphasizing the importance of bringing high-character student-athletes to campus who can succeed both academically and athletically.
Florida Poly Athletics is set to launch this fall with eight sports as the university seeks membership in the NAIA and Sun Conference.
SOURCE: CITY OF LAKELAND
