Kenneth Blakeney epitomizes a life driven by purpose and passion. His journey from a basketball prodigy to a transformative figure in college sports exemplifies leadership, community impact and excellence.
Blakeney’s story began at DeMatha Catholic High School where he played under Naismith Hall of Famer Morgan Wootten. His talent and dedication earned him the title of Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year in 1990 and recognition as one of the nation’s top high school players. This success paved the way to Duke University where he became a key member of Hall of Fame Coach Mike Krzyzewski’s back-to-back NCAA Championship teams in 1991 and 1992. As a senior co-captain in 1995, he led with skill and strategic vision, graduating with a BA in History and setting the stage for a distinguished career beyond the basketball court.
Blakeney’s transition from player to coach was marked by strategic moves that defined his career. Over two decades, he worked with notable coaches such as Lefty Driesell, Mike Brey and Tommy Amaker while holding key coaching roles at prestigious institutions:
- 2019 – Present: Head Coach at Howard University
- 2018 – 2019: Assistant Coach at Columbia University
- 2007 – 2011: Assistant Coach at Harvard University
- 2006 – 2007: Assistant Coach at Marshall University
- 2002 – 2006: Assistant Coach at the University of Delaware
- 2001 – 2002: Assistant Coach at St. Bonaventure University
- 1997 – 2000: Assistant Coach at the University of Delaware
- 1996 – 1997: Assistant Coach at La Salle University
- 1995 – 1996: Assistant Coach at James Madison University
At Howard University, Blakeney’s leadership has been revolutionary. Under his guidance, the team secured the 2023 and 2024 MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) Tournament titles and achieved back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, a historic first for the program. His visionary approach earned him numerous accolades, including the 2022-23 MEAC Coach of the Year, HBCU All-Stars Ben Jobe NCAA National Division I Coach of the Year, BOXTOROW HBCU Coach of the Year, Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Coach of the Year and HBCU Allstar Coach of the Year. Over three seasons (2021-24), Howard became the winningest Division I program in the DMV and the only team in the area to achieve back-to-back NCAA appearances.
Blakeney’s impact extends beyond basketball. From 2009 to 2018, he co-founded Sportin’ Styles, a company known for innovative sports and entertainment accessories, collaborating with the NBA, NHL, MLS, NCAA, and NASCAR, as well as events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and bands like The Dave Matthews Band. His entrepreneurial spirit reflects his passion for sports, entertainment and business.
From 2015 to 2018, Blakeney played a strategic role in Global Marketing at Under Armour Basketball, merging his love for sports with business marketing acumen. Early in his career, he co-founded the World One Sports Academy, a nonprofit pivotal in the early career development of NBA star Chris Bosh, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing young talent.
Blakeney’s dedication to community service was recognized in 2023 when he received the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge’s Collegiate Athletic Coach Award for promoting civic engagement and voter participation. His leadership was further celebrated at the 27th Annual Women Ambassadors Conference where the Howard University Men’s Basketball team received the Trailblazer Award for their advocacy in Black Women’s Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice. This nationally recognized social justice project included events, alongside VP Kamala Harris, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and the Congressional Black Caucus, earning media coverage from Time Magazine, The Washington Post, Andscape and Uninterrupted.
Blakeney’s tenure at Howard University has been marked by significant achievements:
- Leading Howard to the 2023-24 MEAC Tournament titles and consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances.
- Securing a historic commitment from five-star recruit Makur Maker in 2020.
- Mentoring four players to earn MEAC Rookie of the Year honors: Wayne Bristol, Jr.; Elijah Hawkins; Shy Odom and Blake Harper.
- Achieving three consecutive MEAC winning seasons (2021-24) for the first time since the 1980s.
- Guiding the team to its second-best record in program history since turning Division I in 1981 during the 2022-23 season (22-13).
- Securing three of the only five winning seasons for Howard Men’s Basketball since 1992.
Blakeney’s success is rooted in his extraordinary leadership qualities:
- Purposeful Vision: Driven by a clear vision of excellence and impact both on and off the court.
- Passion for the Game: His deep love for basketball fuels his relentless pursuit of success and innovation.
- Community Commitment and Social Justice: Reflects a profound commitment to uplifting communities and fostering positive change.
- Inspirational Leadership: His ability to connect with others, adapt to challenges, and communicate effectively.
- Dedication to Development: Focuses on mentoring young athletes and staff to foster a culture of growth and achievement.
- Disciplined Approach: Meticulous planning and a strong work ethic are the foundations of his success.
Blakeney’s impact as an assistant coach includes significant achievements:
- At Harvard, he played a key role in securing the 2010-11 Ivy League Title and developing NBA star Jeremy Lin.
- At the University of Delaware, he recruited top-tier talent and led the team to multiple NCAA and NIT Tournament selections.
His mentorship extends into the NBA, guiding players such as Rasual Butler, Jeremy Lin and JR Bremer, each making notable contributions to the sport. Blakeney was also selected as an assistant coach at the 2022 NBA Combine, assisting in all drills and games, and serving as a head coach for one game during the combine. Additionally, Howard battled Morgan State in the first NBA HBCU Classic on Saturday, Feb. 19 during NBA All-Star weekend 2022 in Cleveland.
Kenneth Blakeney’s story is one of purpose, passion, and deep commitment to community and leadership. From his days as a high school standout to his transformative role at Howard University, his career reflects a vision that goes beyond winning games. His legacy is a testament to dedication, innovation, and service, leaving an indelible mark on basketball and the community he serves.
Blakeney’s work with the NCAA’s Ethics Coalition and the NABC Committee on Racial Reconciliation underscores his dedication to fostering ethical conduct and addressing social and racial injustice. His life’s work embodies a commitment to living with purpose, leading with passion, and making a lasting impact on both the game and the broader community.
