Alexander Michaels joined the John Jay College men's basketball coaching staff as an assistant coach in September 2025, bringing a diverse background in basketball operations, player development, recruiting, and Division I program management.
In addition to his role as assistant coach, Michaels serves as the program's Director of Basketball Operations, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Bloodhounds. His responsibilities include coordinating team travel, lodging, meals, scheduling, and budgets while ensuring the program operates efficiently and in compliance with institutional standards. He also plays an integral role in opponent scouting and game preparation through film breakdown and statistical analysis using Hudl and Synergy.
Michaels is heavily involved in recruiting, assisting with prospect evaluations, coordinating campus visits, and maintaining communication with recruits and their families. He also works closely with the program's current student-athletes through practice planning, player development workouts, game-day preparation, and relationship building. Beyond the court, Michaels contributes to the program's branding efforts through social media, video content, and community engagement initiatives.
Prior to arriving at John Jay, Michaels spent more than three years with the University of Oregon men's basketball program, serving as a team manager from 2021-24. During his time with the Ducks, he coordinated daily basketball operations, managed practice setup, assisted with travel logistics, and served as a liaison between the coaching staff, Director of Basketball Operations, and equipment personnel. He also supported recruiting operations, organized campus visits, and helped foster relationships with recruits, student-athletes, alumni, and families. As Head Manager, Michaels supervised and mentored a staff of six student managers, overseeing scheduling, training, and daily operations.
Michaels further expanded his basketball experience through an internship with former NBA standout Don MacLean, where he assisted in the pre-draft training and development of NBA prospects represented by CAA Sports. His responsibilities included supporting on-court skill development sessions, drill execution, rebounding, passing, and assisting both players and coaching staff throughout the training process.
In April 2025, Michaels volunteered at the prestigious Nike Hoop Summit in Portland, Oregon, where he assisted with player development drills, player relations, equipment distribution, and event operations. He worked closely with coaches, players, and staff, providing support both on and off the court throughout the international showcase.
Earlier in his career, Michaels served as team manager for the California Lutheran University men's basketball program while still attending high school. He made program history as the first non-student manager, earning recognition for his initiative, dedication, and willingness to assist coaches and players during practices and games.
Outside of basketball, Michaels gained valuable experience in premium client relations with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he worked in Premium Services. In that role, he managed VIP experiences, served as the primary point of contact for premium clients, strengthened relationships with suite holders and club members, and collaborated with the organization's sales team to support client retention and engagement.
A native of California, Michaels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations from the University of Oregon in 2024. He also completed dual minors in Sports Business and Law.
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