BGSU men’s basketball head coach Todd Simon announced the additions of Jason Newkirk, Aleks Abrams and Dillon MacRitchie to the coaching staff on Thursday morning.
Newkirk will serve as an assistant coach, while Abrams will assume the role of special assistant to the head coach. Additionally, MacRitchie has been named director of basketball operations, replacing Nick Korta, who was hired by Missouri in June.
Newkirk spent six years at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, most recently as the director of recruiting.
“Coach Newkirk is an energetic and positive presence that is a great fit for our culture,” Simon said. “His commitment to player development and recruiting are fits for our program. He is an excellent up-and-coming coach that will have an impact on our players.’
Newkirk helped lead the Panthers to back-to-back 20-win seasons the past two years. He was also praised for his player development during his time with the program.
“I am incredibly grateful to join the exceptional program that Todd Simon has built,” Newkirk said. “His reputation for winning and developing the character of student-athletes is truly remarkable. I am excited to contribute to this tradition, work closely with our talented players and dedicated staff, and compete for the MAC title. This is a tremendous opportunity, and I’m ready to give it everything I’ve got. Ay Ziggy Zoomba!”
Abrams spent last season as a video and player development coaching associate with the Los Angeles Lakers.
“Coach Abrams brings outstanding experience at the highest level of basketball with the Los Angeles Lakers. His perspectives and eye for the game will be an asset for us,” Simon said. “In addition, his work ethic and creativity will help us advance our program.”
Before spending last season with the Lakers, Abrams has had coaching stints at Santa Clara University, the University of Portland and Warner Pacific University. Before he began coaching, Abrams played the 2018-2019 season at Miami (OH), leading the RedHawks with 20 blocks.
“I am very excited about this opportunity,” Abrams said. “I can’t wait to join the Falcon program and be a part of this historical program. Look forward to seeing everyone at the Stroh!”
Meanwhile, MacRitchie remains on staff after spending the past two seasons as a graduate manager with the Falcons.
“Dillon is a true Falcon and established himself as a tireless worker from the day he stepped on campus. With both a bachelor’s and master’s from Bowling Green and five years with the program, he knows BGSU basketball from the inside and out,” Simon said. “Dillon is extremely intelligent and has taken all tasks we’ve put ahead of him. He will continue to be an important pillar of the program.”
Before becoming a graduate manager for the team, MacRitchie was a student manager for the Falcons beginning in 2019, including serving as the head student manager. MacRitchie is a two-time BGSU graduate, receiving his bachelor’s in 2022 and master’s in 2024.
“I am excited and thankful for my new position with the Falcons opportunity provided by Coach Simon,” MacRitchie said. “I am excited to continue my career here at BGSU. Go Falcons!”
