COLUMBUS – Columbus State University Head Men's Basketball Coach Robert Moore has announced the hiring of Karl Ivey as the program's newest assistant coach.
A familiar face in Columbus, Ivey returns to CSU after previously serving as the program's graduate assistant from 2021-23.
"I feel Karl will be a major contributor to our success here at Columbus State," Coach Moore stated. "With his knowledge of the game and understanding of the landscape of CSU Athletics, he will excel in this role. I have always been impressed with his love and passion for the game of basketball."
Since 2023, Ivey has served as the head boys basketball coach and program director at The Brookstone School in Columbus, where he guided the Cougars to 30 wins and back-to-back state tournament appearances. He oversaw the development of over 50 student-athletes, managed team logistics and budgets, and created recruiting opportunities through film breakdowns and academic support initiatives.
Ivey also brings experience from his time as an assistant boys basketball coach at Columbus High School from 2020–2022.
During his time as a graduate assistant with the men's basketball program, Ivey played an integral role in scouting, player development, and recruiting. His work with several standout student-athletes helped produce Peach Belt Conference honors, including Defensive Player of the Year and multiple All-Conference selections. During his time as a graduate assistant, the Cougars produced a 36-25 overall record and made an appearance in the NCAA DII National Tournament.
A Columbus State alumnus, Ivey holds dual master's degrees in Educational Leadership and Public Administration, as well as a bachelor's degree in Biology with a pre-medical focus.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to return to the men's basketball program at Columbus State and to continue the tradition of success," Ivey said. "Excited to get to work, build with a purpose, and compete with passion. Let's go, Cougars!"
Ivey is set to replace longtime assistant Jalen Butler who accepted a head coaching position at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Alabama. Butler has been a part of the men's basketball program since 2019 and contributed to a pair of NCAA tournament appearances, the 2024-25 PBC Regular Season title, and the No. 1 overall seed in the 2025 NCAA Southeast Regional.
