New Men’s Head Basketball Coach, Kenneth Stevens – Building a Legacy in Basketball and Community

New Hostos Head Men’s Basketball Coach Kenneth Stevens brings with him a wealth of experience and passion for the sport

The Caimans’ new Head Men’s Basketball Coach is a familiar face to the Hostos community. After over twelve years with the team as their beloved assistant coach, Coach Kenneth Stevens is taking up the mantle and leading the College’s storied Caimans in the 2025-26 season. 

Stevens isn’t new to the role; he’s true to it. With over four decades of experience behind him, he’s worked tirelessly to build a legacy in basketball and community as both a head coach at Roosevelt High School in Yonkers and  the founder, director and commissioner of Dyckman Basketball. Now, in his new position at Hostos, he is focused on creating an environment that champions teamwork, personal development, and the pursuit of dreams. “If I had a coach like the ones we have at Hostos, who knows? I might have continued playing at a higher level,” he reflected, highlighting his passion for mentorship.

Stevens’ connection to Hostos began over a decade ago when he joined as an assistant coach, collaborating with the respected former head coach Marquee Poole to create a coaching team built on shared goals and mutual respect. “You’re only as strong as your team,” he emphasizes, crediting the Caimans' success to the extraordinary coaching staff he has worked with. The feeling is mutual, as the rest of the coaching staff is thrilled to have Stevens leading the team this season.
 

Howie Harrison, Assistant Men's Basketball Coach, expressed his enthusiasm for Stevens’ promotion, stating, “I’m excited about it, I’m looking forward to it. I just know we’re going to continue to do great things.” He added that they would maintain the winning mindset and further develop their players, ensuring Hostos remains a powerhouse in basketball tradition.

Anthony Bligen, Assistant Men's Basketball Coach, echoed this excitement, praising Stevens for his tireless work ethic and commitment to getting the job done. Jamel Harris, Director of Player Development and a colleague who has worked with Stevens both at Hostos and Dyckman Basketball, is also looking forward to seeing him lead the team this season. “Being his right-hand man in and outside of this building has been a pleasure. But I know this season we’re going to see a different side of him, and it’s going to be the best side,” he shared.

With six dedicated returning athletes and a solid roster of 14-15 players, Stevens is filled with optimism for the challenges ahead and working overtime to ensure the team upholds Hostos’ incredible reputation and to put his “own stamp” on the Caiman’s legacy. His goal is to repeat as CUNY champions, go back to and conquer regionals, and earn the title of national champs. He assures, “We practice with intensity, our vision remains clear, and even with new leadership, our dedication is unwavering.” 

Stevens’ expectations for excellence also extend beyond the court. Recognizing that it can be difficult for student-athletes to balance their coursework with practice, training, and games, especially while commuting from various parts of the city and often finishing at the gym as late as 9 or 10 p.m., he is also implementing a study hall. The initiative aims to ensure that the players have time to hit the books before they hit the hardwood or the gym. 

His approach is shaped by a lifelong dedication to building community around the sport of basketball. Stevens himself started out as a student-athlete and understands their unique journey. His career in basketball began during his fifth year at John F. Kennedy High School, where he discovered his passion for the game. He went on to excel at Kingsborough Community College, scoring an impressive 1,118 points in just two years and earning a place in the Kingsborough Athletic Hall of Fame. Although he did not complete his degree, Stevens is determined to finish what he started and aims to earn his associate degree at Hostos by June 2026, believing, “If I’m going to coach college-level players, I owe it to myself to complete my degree!”

Beyond college basketball, Stevens — raised in the vibrant Dyckman neighborhood of Manhattan — harnessed his passion to shape recreational basketball on a local and national scale. In his twenties, he co-founded Dyckman Basketball with a friend, evolving it from casual games into a nationally celebrated event, drawing support from renowned sponsors like Nike. His exceptional coaching was acknowledged in 2021 when he was named Junior Knicks Coach of the Year. With notable NBA stars like Carmelo Anthony, Larry Johnson, and Koby Brea watching his summer tournaments, the Dyckman program’s success and reputation continues to grow! Last summer, over 105 teams of all ages took part in the tournament from June to August, further demonstrating Stevens’ commitment to making basketball accessible and inclusive. “Everyone — regardless of nationality or gender — should have the opportunity to play summer basketball,” he states proudly.

At the end of the day, he affirms: “My ties to the community and uplifting and giving back is part of what I do.” Stevens stands as a shining example of how one can blend passion, community, and purpose into a lasting legacy. We couldn’t be more excited to see what Coach Stevens will bring to our team this season and look forward to his leadership as he guides our players on and off the court.

The 2025-26 basketball season begins on November 1. Check HostosAthletics.com for the full schedule, and be sure you come by and cheer on our amazing men’s and women’s basketball teams.