Jacob Whitehead, a former player manager turned assistant coach, returns to the SIUE men's basketball staff under head coach Brian Barone. Whitehead, who started at SIUE in 2017, has gained significant experience during his four seasons with Ole Miss women's basketball, contributing to their successes and multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. His commitment to SIUE and its culture was highlighted by Barone, who praised Whitehead's longstanding loyalty and belief in the program. He aims to leverage his high-level experience to enhance player development and program success once again.

By the Numbers
  • During his time at Ole Miss, Whitehead contributed to two Sweet 16 appearances, three semifinal appearances, and four wins over AP top-five opponents.
  • He played an integral role in assembling ESPN's No. 2-ranked transfer portal class for the 2025–26 season.
State of Play
  • Whitehead is expected to contribute immediately to player development and enhance the team's branding and operations.
  • He returns to a program with a recent history of success, fostering a culture of winning and growth.
What's Next

As the new season approaches, Whitehead aims to focus on recruiting and developing talent while aiming for the team’s championship aspirations. His experience could greatly influence the team's preparation and performance in upcoming competitions.

Bottom Line

Jacob Whitehead's return is not just a homecoming; it represents a strategic move to utilize his expertise in player development and high-level competition to elevate SIUE men’s basketball back to prominence.