Northwest Wayne News

Wayne State University has announced the appointment of Gjon Djokaj as an assistant coach for its men's basketball team. Head coach Bryan Smothers expressed enthusiasm about Djokaj joining the team, stating, "Gjon is a proven winner and an even better person. Over the course of the interview process, he showed his desire to be at Wayne State, and detailed specific examples of how he could make our program better. I am excited to work with and learn from him along the way."

Djokaj's recent experience includes serving as head coach at Oakland Community College (OCC), where he led the team to a 24-9 record and a spot in the NJCAA DII Men's Basketball Championship. This marked OCC's first appearance at the national championship since 1987. During his tenure, three players received All-Tournament recognition: Linden Holder and Justin Latham were named to the All-Tournament Team, while Nick Speiser was selected as All-Tournament Team MVP at the District Championship.

In recognition of his coaching achievements, Djokaj was awarded both the Great Lakes District A Coach of the Year and Michigan Community College Athletic Association Eastern Conference Coach of the Year awards.

Before OCC, Djokaj coached Warren De La Salle High School from 2020 to 2024, achieving a 65-28 record and securing an MHSAA Division 1 state championship in 2022. He also earned accolades as Associated Press Division 1 Coach of the Year that same year.

Djokaj began his coaching career at Walled Lake Northern with a record of 45-21 over three seasons and had one season at Livonia Franklin. His playing career started in Farmington Hills at North Farmington High School under coaches Tom Negoshian and Pete Mantyla.

Djokaj holds a bachelor's degree in Sports Studies from Central Michigan University with minors in Business and Coaching. He resides with his wife Liz and their three sons: Andrew, Gabe, and Philip.