Irving Harris is a graduate of Cambridge College (B.A., 1992 M.Ed. Psychology) in Cambridge, Mass. attended Tufts University (1990) in Medford. MA, and Bellevue University, NE 1977-1978
Irving is a highly accomplished basketball coach with a deep passion for the game. He began his basketball journey as a player at Omaha Central High School, where his team emerged as district champions in 1977. His love for the sport led him to Bellevue University in Nebraska, where he displayed his skills and dedication, earning a coveted varsity letter.
After completing his education, Harris transitioned to coaching, eager to share his knowledge and shape the next generation of basketball players. He embarked on his coaching career as an assistant for the NHTI women's basketball program from 2011 to 2013, contributing his expertise and guidance to the team's success.
In 2013, Harris joined St. Anselm College, assuming the role of assistant coach with a focus on scouting and recruiting. His keen eye for talent and ability to identify promising players played a significant role in the team's growth and development during his tenure from 2013 to 2014.
However, Coach Harris's journey eventually brought him back to NHTI in 2015, and his impact was nothing short of extraordinary. As a coach, he excelled in recruiting exceptional athletes, resulting in the acquisition of several talented individuals who would go on to receive prestigious accolades. One such player was J'Quavious Thurmond, a remarkable athlete who earned the distinction of being a 3-time All American and a member of the YSCC All Decade Team.
Harris's coaching prowess propelled NHTI to new heights. During his time as an assistant coach, the team achieved remarkable success, securing three consecutive YSCC Championships and capturing the coveted USCAA National Championship in 2020. Harris's ability to assemble formidable teams and his unwavering dedication to their development enabled NHTI to consistently qualify for the national championship tournament, starting from his second season as a coach.
Irving Harris's exceptional coaching abilities did not go unnoticed, as he received the esteemed title of YSCC Coach of the Year during his inaugural season as head coach. His passion for the game, coupled with his extensive experience, scouting skills, and proven track record, make him an invaluable asset to any team he coached. Harris continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of basketball, shaping the lives of players and inspiring future generations to strive for greatness on and off the court.
