Jeff Boals was named head men's basketball coach at Stony Brook University by Director of Athletics Shawn Heilbron on April 9, 2016. He arrived at Stony Brook after spending seven seasons as an assistant coach at Ohio State.
In his first season with the Seawolves, Boals led Stony Brook to a second-place finish in America East, beginning league play with five straight victories. The Seawolves earned a spot in the post season for the sixth straight year with an appearance in the CBI.
A member of Thad Matta's staff from 2009-16, Boals [pronounced BOWLS] helped guide Ohio State to seven postseason appearances, including six NCAA Tournaments. The Buckeyes, who won or claimed a share of three Big 10 titles, advanced to the Final Four in 2012. Ohio State went 193-62 during Boals' time in Columbus.
Boals was instrumental in bringing some of the top players in the nation to Ohio State, including current NBA stars Jared Sullinger and D’Angelo Russell, along with Aaron Craft, the all-time steals and assist leader in Ohio State history. He also coached the 2010 National Player of the Year, Evan Turner, during his outstanding collegiate career with the Buckeyes.
Prior to Ohio State, Boals spent three seasons at Akron, serving as the team's recruiting coordinator and working with the post players. The Zips advanced to three Mid-American Conference championship games, winning the title in 2009. It was Akron's first NCAA Tournament berth since 1986. Boals also recruited Anthony "Humpty" Hitchens, a MAC All-Freshman Performer, and Zeke Marshall, a top-35 national recruit.
Boals spent two seasons (2004-06) at Robert Morris and four years (1999-2003) at Marshall. In his final season at Robert Morris, the Colonials posted their first winning record in 15 seasons. He also spent a total of four seasons at Division II University of Charleston in two different stints.
A 1995 graduate of Ohio University, Boals was a two-time captain and four-year letterwinner for the Bobcats, who advanced to the NCAA Tournament in 1994. The following year, Ohio University won the Preseason NIT Championship after wins over Ohio State and No. 14 Virginia, as well as George Washington and New Mexico State at Madison Square Garden.
Boals and his wife, Katie, have two children, Sydney and Chase.
What They're Saying About Jeff Boals
“I’m very excited for Jeff, his family, and Stony Brook University. Jeff has done a remarkable job at The Ohio State University in his seven years as a Buckeye. He is certainly ready to be a head coach and has an amazing opportunity at such a fine institution. Jeff has a great basketball mind and will bring energy and enthusiasm to the great situation that Stony Brook University offers.”
-Thad Matta, Ohio State Head Men's Basketball Coach
“Knowing that he is pursuing his dreams to be a head coach is big time. He has always been super supportive and a major mentor to me and my family throughout my process, thanks once again. P.S. Just became a Stony Brook fan.”
- D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers
“Congrats to Stony Brook and Jeff Boals, who I can say with 100 percent sincerity is a coach who still coaches me to this day. Best of luck JB.”
- Jared Sullinger, Boston Celtics
“Jeff Boals will be a great addition to the Stony Brook community. His commitment, passion, and knowledge of the game is second to none. I'm excited to see the rise of the Stony Brook basketball program!”
- Evan Turner, Boston Celtics
“Jeff is a consummate professional, excellent teacher and person! He will be missed!! “ - Gene Smith, Ohio State Director of Athletics “The first thing about Jeff is that he's won everywhere he's been. I like to think of Jeff as a diversified coach. He's a terrific recruiter, understands in-game strategy and is relentless. He has a chip on his shoulder like one of my former assistants, Shaka Smart.”
- Keith Dambrot, Akron Head Men's Basketball Coach
