Jaylen Blakes has joined the Stanford men’s basketball program as director of player personnel, according to a May 15 announcement from the university. Blakes, who played at Stanford during the 2024-25 season and spent last year playing professionally, will now serve on the staff under head coach Kyle Smith.
Blakes’ appointment marks a return to Stanford after he contributed significantly as a graduate transfer. During his season with the Cardinal, he appeared in 32 games and averaged 13.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. He ranked fourth in the Atlantic Coast Conference in free throw percentage during conference play and finished ninth all-time for single-season steals at Stanford.
“We are blessed to have Jaylen come back to the Farm,” said Kyle Smith. “He bet on our staff and Stanford when we first arrived, and now he wants to elevate the program as a coach.”
Blakes expressed gratitude for his new role: “I am blessed and grateful for the opportunity from Coach Smith to allow me to join the coaching staff and be a part of the Stanford community once again,” said Blakes. “I am excited to assist in the continued growth and excellence of this basketball program.”
In addition to his on-court achievements at Stanford—including an ACC All-Academic Team selection—Blakes was recognized for his academic success both at Duke University and with awards such as Duke’s Dr. Deryl Hart Award for top scholar-athlete. He helped lead Duke to appearances in both the NCAA Final Four (2022) and Elite Eight (2024). Last season, Blakes played professionally in Israel before an injury ended his campaign early.
“Jaylen has tremendous knowledge of the game and a passion for competition, and he will be a great role model for our current team, especially our incoming players,” Smith said.
