From Player to Coach: Kyonze Chavis Joins Norfolk State Basketball Staff
Kyonze Chavis has taken another step in his remarkable journey with Norfolk State, joining the coaching staff for the 2025-26 season under head coach Robert Jones. It is a homecoming of sorts, as Chavis brings his wealth of experience and player knowledge to the sidelines, ready to inspire the next generation of players at Norfolk State.
Transition from Player to Coach
Chavis’s transition from a player to a coach has been nothing short of inspiring. Having been a standout player at Norfolk State, he now walks onto the basketball court with a clipboard in hand, ready to strategize and guide the Spartans to further glory. His past contributions as a volunteer assistant already speak volumes, having helped lead the team to MEAC Regular Season and Tournament titles in the previous season.
Contributions as a Player
During Chavis’s playing days, he was known for his tenacity and skill. A key member of the basketball team, he etched his name in Spartan history with his remarkable performance that included scoring double figures against top competitors like Gonzaga. These achievements serve as a testament to his understanding of the game—a quality that now translates into his coaching.
A Record of Success in Coaching
Already building a legacy of his own on the sidelines, Chavis first stepped into coaching at Norfolk Collegiate School, pushing the Mighty Oaks to a 19-2 record. His coaching prowess didn’t stop there; developing talents such as Joe Bryant Jr., a two-time MEAC Player of the Year, is part of his growing legacy.
A Bright Future for Norfolk State
With his appointment as a full-time assistant coach, Chavis is set to be an integral part of the Spartans’ future. His influence on and off the court will play a crucial role in shaping the team, especially as they prepare to defend their MEAC Tournament title in the coming seasons. “Norfolk State is HOME,” Chavis remarked, highlighting both his personal connection and dedication to the university.
As stated in HoopDirt, under Chavis’s influence, Norfolk State basketball is poised to keep reaching new heights. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting chapter in the continued success story of the Norfolk State Spartans.
