BREAKING NEWS: BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – In a move that has generated significant excitement among Indiana Hoosiers fans, former Indiana standout Cody Zeller has been appointed as the new Director of Player Personnel and Assistant Coach for the men’s basketball team.
Indiana University has announced that Cody Zeller, one of the most beloved figures in recent Hoosiers basketball history, is returning to Bloomington in a new role that bridges mentorship and player development. The former Indiana star will now serve as the Director of Player Personnel and an Assistant Coach for the men’s basketball program, marking a homecoming that has already ignited enthusiasm throughout the Hoosier faithful.
Zeller, who played for the Hoosiers from 2011 to 2013, was instrumental in the resurgence of IU basketball during his college tenure. His freshman year helped spark a dramatic turnaround for the program, and he followed that up with an All-American sophomore campaign. Under head coach Tom Crean, Zeller helped lead Indiana to back-to-back Sweet Sixteen appearances and a No. 1 seed in the 2013 NCAA Tournament. His blend of skill, athleticism, and high basketball IQ made him one of the most dominant big men in college basketball during his time in Bloomington.
After declaring for the NBA Draft in 2013, Zeller was selected fourth overall by the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets) and enjoyed a 10-year professional career, including stints with the Portland Trail Blazers, Miami Heat, and New Orleans Pelicans. Known for his professionalism, team-first attitude, and high work ethic, Zeller earned respect across the league as a reliable role player and locker room presence.
Now, as he transitions from player to coach, Zeller brings with him a wealth of experience that will benefit both current players and the program as a whole. His new position will involve a range of responsibilities, including working closely with student-athletes on their development both on and off the court, assisting in recruiting efforts, and helping shape team strategy and culture under current head coach Mike Woodson.
“I couldn’t be more excited to return to Indiana and be part of a program that means so much to me,” Zeller said in a statement. “The university and the fans have always felt like family, and I’m looking forward to giving back to the next generation of Hoosiers. I’ve been blessed to learn from some of the best in the game, and I’m ready to pass on that knowledge and help build something special here.”
Head coach Mike Woodson, himself an IU legend turned NBA veteran, expressed enthusiasm about the addition. “Cody brings instant credibility, experience, and passion for Indiana basketball. He knows what it means to wear the jersey, and he’s walked the path our players hope to walk. I have no doubt he’ll have an immediate and lasting impact.”
This move also signals Indiana’s continued investment in reconnecting the program with its storied past. Zeller joins a growing list of former IU players who have returned in various coaching or developmental roles, helping to reestablish a sense of tradition and continuity that has long defined Hoosiers basketball.
The timing of the announcement, coming ahead of a crucial offseason for the team, suggests that Indiana is gearing up for an aggressive push in recruiting and development. Zeller’s presence is expected to be a major asset in connecting with recruits, particularly big men, who can now look to a mentor that has successfully navigated the college and professional ranks.
Fans have already taken to social media to celebrate the news, with many citing Zeller’s return as a full-circle moment. “Feels like IU basketball is getting its soul back,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
As Cody Zeller steps into this new chapter, the anticipation for what lies ahead is palpable. His return not only brings a familiar face to the bench but reaffirms Indiana’s commitment to blending its proud heritage with a forward-looking vision. For Hoosier Nation, it’s a homecoming that feels just right.