KENOSHA, Wis. – Kyle Blackbourn has been named the seventh head coach of the UW-Parkside men’s basketball program. After two successful seasons at Rockhurst University, where he led the team to its first Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) championship, Blackbourn is ready to take on this new challenge. Chancellor Lynn Akey and Director of Athletics Adam Schemm announced his appointment on Tuesday.
Akey expressed excitement about Blackbourn’s arrival, saying he has a strong history of competitive success. Schemm highlighted Blackbourn’s work ethic and ability to build lasting relationships. Blackbourn, the 2026 NABC Division II Midwest Coach of the Year, has a wide range of coaching experience, from junior college to NCAA Division I with the University of Wisconsin.
In his last season at Rockhurst, Blackbourn achieved a remarkable 23-7 record. This was a historic year for the Hawks, marking their fourth trip to the NCAA Division II Tournament and earning a No. 4 seed in the Midwest Region. His team was nationally recognized, ranking eighth in offensive efficiency with an impressive average of 87.1 points per game and only 9.9 turnovers per game, ranked ninth nationwide.
Prior to Rockhurst, Blackbourn contributed to the Wisconsin Badgers as the Director of Recruiting and Scouting. His tenure saw the Badgers capture two Big Ten championships and make five NCAA Tournament appearances. He played a role in the development of several standout players, including Johnny Davis, the 2022 National Player of the Year.
Blackbourn’s coaching career began at Delta College in Michigan, where in his first season he led the team to a 19-13 record and broke school records for first-year head coaches. His earlier coaching roles included assistant positions at Benedictine College and Grand View University, where he was part of winning teams and developed numerous players.
Blackbourn’s commitment to both basketball and education stands out. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Benedictine College. His focus on academics is reflected in Rockhurst’s strong performance, where players excelled both on the court and in the classroom, ranking highly in Academic All-District selections.
Reactions to Blackbourn’s appointment highlight his reputation in the coaching community. Greg Gard, head coach at Wisconsin, recognizes him as a rising star with a profound knowledge of the game. Coaches from various programs have praised his leadership and dedication to player development.
As Blackbourn steps into this new role, he sees it as an opportunity for growth and connection. He aims to foster a program that not only competes fiercely but also builds lasting relationships within the community. His journey reflects the importance of mentorship in sports, and his commitment to developing young athletes is evident.
This new chapter at UW-Parkside comes at a time when college basketball is evolving. Programs are increasingly focused on both athletic performance and the holistic development of student-athletes. As Blackbourn takes the reins, his approach will likely resonate with current trends in sports management and coaching philosophies.
With a blend of experience and passion, Kyle Blackbourn is set to lead UW-Parkside into a competitive future, one that stays connected to the local community while pushing for excellence on the court.
