Keith Jefferson Named University of Bridgeport Assistant Women's Basketball Coach

Bridgeport, Conn.-University of Bridgeport head women's basketball Janie Mitchell has announced the addition of Keith Jefferson, as the Purple Knights' new assistant coach.

Jefferson most recently served as the head varsity girls' basketball coach at Essex County Newark Tech in New Jersey since 2013. Keith was named the nj.com Essex County/SEC Coach of the Year in 2018. He led Newark Tech to three NJSIAA Group 2 Section 2 State Championships in 2015, 2016 and 2018. Jefferson held the same position at Morristown-Beard School in Morristown, NJ from 2010-2011. A well-respected coach known throughout the Tri-State area, he has been a part of the rise of several high school and AAU programs in the Garden State. He also gained valuable collegiate experience as an assistant coach at Kean University from 2008-2009.

Jefferson is a native of Jersey City, N.J. and graduated from Roselle High School before going on to be a student-athlete at Pennsylvania State University in State College, Pa. He graduated in 2001 with a Bachelor's Degree in Recreation and Park Management.

States head coach Mitchell, "I am so excited to add someone with Keith's experience level to our coaching staff. He is a tireless worker that understands the commitment it takes to have our program operating at a high level. His knowledge of the game and recruiting ties will make an immediate impact on Bridgeport women's basketball. He is someone I've observed from afar and respect, and I know our student-athletes will benefit from."

"I'm very grateful to athletic director Anthony Vitti, head coach Janie Mitchell, as well as, the University of Bridgeport Administration for providing me with this outstanding opportunity to be a part of this great institution and program, says Jefferson. I'm excited to meet and get right to work with the student-athletes of the University of Bridgeport women's basketball team. I would like to thank my family, the student-athletes and their families, colleagues, coaches, and administrators that I have had the privilege of coaching and working with over the years. You all have played an instrumental part in helping me develop my craft as a coach. I truly appreciate you all. I'm ready for this next step in my career to team up with Coach Mitchell to lead the University of Bridgeport Purple Knights!"