KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan University and new head men's basketball coach Dwayne Stephens have announced Thomas Kelley will return to the WMU staff as an assistant coach.
 
"Thomas has the unique ability to connect with student-athletes and recruits," Stephens said. "Having played at the highest level for several years, his passion for the game is on display every day. No one spends more time helping our Broncos perfect their craft. We are very fortunate to have Thomas as a part of our program."
 
Kelley is back for a fifth season at Western Michigan, having served for the last four seasons as an assistant coach on the Broncos' staff. During his time at WMU, six Broncos have earned All-MAC recognition, including Lamar Norman Jr. earning a spot on the All-MAC Third Team this past season after becoming the first Western Michigan player to lead the conference in scoring since David Brown in 2013-14. WMU has also had 13 Academic All-MAC selections during his time in Kalamazoo.
 
"What you have is a battle-tested coach in Dwayne Stephens," Kelley said. "He believes that by creating a winning culture, you will get the results you deserve. I'm grateful to be a part of the journey."
 
Prior to arriving at Western Michigan, Kelley served as a graduate manager at Michigan State while Stephens was serving as an assistant under legendary head coach Tom Izzo. A native of Grand Rapids, Mich., Kelley was Izzo's first recruit at MSU, playing there from 1995-1999 and playing an integral role on Izzo's first Final Four team with the Spartans in 1999. Following his collegiate career, Kelley went on to play 15 seasons in Europe.