Former USC coach Tony Bland reportedly makes college basketball comeback with Washington following bribery conviction

After serving a three-year show-cause penalty for his role in a major college basketball scandal, Tony Bland is making a comeback to the sport. The former USC assistant coach, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery in connection to the fraud scandal that shook college basketball, is set to join the coaching staff at Washington as an assistant under head coach Danny Sprinkle.

Bland’s involvement in the scandal, which involved accepting money from sports agents and financial planners in exchange for influencing NBA-bound USC players, led to his ban from the sport and a period of community service. However, with no prior criminal record and a history of coaching success, Bland has been given a second chance to return to the game he loves.

During his time away from college basketball, Bland coached at St. Bernard High School in Los Angeles, worked as an AAU coach, and helped troubled youth in the area. His experience as both a player and a coach at various levels of the game has prepared him for this new opportunity at Washington.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Bland’s resilience and dedication to the sport have not gone unnoticed. Judge Edgardo Ramos, who presided over his case, expressed confidence in Bland’s ability to move forward positively, stating that he believes Bland will not return to the courtroom.

With his past behind him, Tony Bland is ready to embark on a new chapter in his coaching career at Washington, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a renewed sense of purpose.