Michael Thompson enters his second season as an assistant coach with the Iona University men's basketball program in 2026-27 after helping guide the Gaels to an 18-win campaign during his first year on the sidelines in New Rochelle.
In his debut season with Iona, Thompson played a key role in player development, recruiting, scouting, and game preparation. Drawing on more than a decade of professional playing experience, he helped mentor an emerging roster that included All-MAAC Second Team selection CJ Anthony while contributing to the program's continued growth and success.
A former standout at Northwestern University, Thompson remains one of the most accomplished players in Wildcats history. Upon graduating in 2011, he held school records for assists (528), minutes played (4,633), games played (129), and games started (129). He also finished his career ranked second in three-point field goals made (276), third in scoring (1,689 points), fifth in steals (159), and sixth in three-point field goal percentage (.409).
Following his collegiate career, Thompson enjoyed a highly successful professional career that spanned more than a decade and included stops in Germany, France, Turkey, Kazakhstan, and Egypt. He began his professional journey with Skyliners Frankfurt in Germany before competing for ASVEL, Élan Béarnais Pau-Orthez, and SPO Rouen in France. Thompson later played in Turkey's Basketbol Süper Ligi with Besiktas and Istanbul BB before returning to France with Le Mans and BCM Gravelines-Dunkerque.
His career also included time with Astana in Kazakhstan's VTB United League and multiple stints with Al Ahly in Egypt. Over the course of his professional career, Thompson was part of nine championship-winning teams, capturing one title in Kazakhstan and eight consecutive championships in Egypt.
Following his playing career, Thompson founded the Juice Hoops Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing inclusive and empowering opportunities for underserved and neurodiverse youth. He also worked as a player development coach in the Chicago area, helping collegiate and professional athletes elevate their skills and performance.
Thompson's extensive international playing experience, leadership qualities, and passion for player development continue to make him a valuable member of the Iona coaching staff as the Gaels build toward future success.
