Mike Woodson has produced a strong recruiting class for Indiana as the Hoosiers look to reload for the 2023-24 season. Now, the head coach has added a program legend to his off-court staff.

The new addition comes in the form of Calbert Cheaney, Indiana’s all-time leading scorer and a 3-time All-American for the Hoosiers. He returns to Bloomington to serve as Woodson’s Director of Player Development, his second stint as an IU assistant after previously serving as Director of Operations.

“I could not think of anyone better suited to be part of this program than Calbert Cheaney,” said Woodson per the program’s press release.  “Every team or program he has been a part of after his playing career, he has had an immense impact on.  As a player in college and as a pro, his experiences are as good as it gets.  Our players can ask him, how do you become successful when you get to college?  What can I do to help my team win championships? What do I need to do to be an All-American or National Player of the Year?  How did you become a first round draft pick who played 13 years in the NBA?

“I think he can share his experiences of how teams expect their players to work every day and get the most out of their ability. He’s done it, he’s lived it and I don’t think you will find anyone who has a bad thing to say about him. He is a high-character individual who loves this program.”

Prior to returning to the Hoosiers, Cheaney spent time with the Indiana Pacers while emphasizing player development. He played for the Hoosiers from 1989-93, leading the program to an NCAA Tournament appearance every season and a Final Four in 1992.