Duquesne Basketball Hires Dru Joyce III As Associate Head Coach

A man with close ties to Keith Dambrot is reuniting with him at Duquesne.

The Duquesne men’s basketball program has announced the hiring of 37-year old Dru Joyce III as the new associate head coach for the Dukes. Joyce has a long history with Dambrot, having played for him both in high school and in college at Akron. Joyce has spent the past three seasons as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at Cleveland State.

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“Dru is a hard-nosed, chip-on-his-shoulder competitor,” said Dambrot. “He was always the underdog. As a freshman in high school, he was 5-foot-2 and 92 pounds and made seven 3’s in a state championship game, which tells you about his competitive nature. He carried that throughout his high school, college and professional career. Although he is relatively new to the coaching profession in years, he’s pretty much been a coach since he was 14 years old. Coaching and leadership are a natural for him. He’s a hard worker who has always been an overachiever and a winner. He will really give our program a shot in the arm, not only as another former professional player on our staff, but also as someone who has been part of our family for nearly 25 years.”

“I want to thank Dave Harper, Coach Dambrot and his staff for welcoming my family and me to Duquesne University,” said Joyce III. “Together we share the same values and vision for this program and community. Coach Dambrot is more than just my former coach and mentor, he is my family. He was inspirational in my development as a student-athlete and played a vital role in my coaching career. I’m honored and look forward to work beside Coach D and his staff in helping to grow and impact the lives of our student-athletes.”

Joyce was the point guard for Dambrot’s Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary High School team with LeBron James. Joyce then was Dambrot’s point guard as a sophomore when he was hired as Akron’s head coach. He then went on to play professionally in Europe for 12 seasons in Germany, Poland, Russia and France.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING ABOUT DRU JOYCE III

“I’m so proud of the journey and growth my brother continues to ascend towards in his coaching career. His knowledge of the game and worth ethic will be immediately impactful to the Duquesne program!”  LeBron James- Los Angeles Lakers

“Dru Joyce is one of the top young basketball coaches in the country. As the product of a hoops family, his basketball IQ is off the charts and his passion for the game is second to none. Most importantly, Dru is- and always has been- a winner.” Shaka Smart- Marquette Men’s Basketball Coach

“Dru is not only a friend and a brother but he’s also a servant leader, student of the game, a disciplined and diligent worker, and an expectational coach. He is the perfect choice to help grow this program and assist in the development of their student-athletes both on and off the court. I couldn’t be happier for him and his family for this great opportunity. The present and future is bright at Duquesne. Go Dukes!”  Brandon Weems- Assistant General Manager Cleveland Cavaliers

“Coach Joyce is a man of character who is committed to the development of the total student-athlete. He knows how to teach the game. He is very talented and will soon be a head coach for a Division I program. He consistently pours his competitive spirt and basketball knowledge into his students each day. He is a true champion and connector of people. The Duquesne community is lucky to have Dru and his family.” Dennis Gates- Missouri Men’s Basketball Coach.