Danny Manning, a prominent figure in University of Kansas basketball history and most recently an assistant coach at Louisville, has been selected as an assistant coach at Colorado, as announced by Buffaloes coach Tad Boyle on Tuesday. Manning, who steps in for Rick Ray on Boyle’s coaching staff at CU, previously played alongside Boyle during the 1984-85 season at KU. His tenure at Colorado will commence on June 1.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Manning stated, “I’m thrilled to join coach Boyle’s team. This staff has a track record of success, and I’m eager to absorb their strategies while contributing my own insights from both playing and coaching experiences. I extend my gratitude to athletic director Rick George and the administration for this opportunity, and I anticipate integrating into the Buffalo culture in Boulder.”
Manning, aged 57, enjoyed a 15-year NBA career subsequent to leading KU to the NCAA title in 1988. His coaching background is extensive, including stints as associate head coach at Louisville (2022-24), head coach at Tulsa (2012-14), head coach at Wake Forest (2014-20), and interim head coach at Maryland for part of the 2021-22 season. Boyle emphasized Manning’s multifaceted contributions, particularly his mentorship of young players and his recruiting prowess.
Beginning his coaching journey at KU under Bill Self in 2003, Manning eventually transitioned to assistant coach, aiding in the Jayhawks’ 2008 NCAA championship triumph and their subsequent Final Four appearance in 2012. Recognized as the 1988 NCAA Final Four’s most outstanding player and a consensus national player of the year, Manning boasts an illustrious collegiate career, with his No. 25 jersey retired at Kansas. He was inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008.
Boyle underscored Manning’s remarkable basketball journey, from being the top pick in the 1988 NBA Draft to his coaching successes at various Division I programs. Manning’s addition to the coaching staff is anticipated to greatly benefit Colorado basketball as they prepare to re-enter the Big 12 for the 2024-25 season.
