Howard Community College named Cole Harshman head coach of its JV men’s basketball team July 6. Harshman will continue serving as an assistant coach for the varsity men’s basketball team, a role he has held for the last two seasons.
The full JV men’s basketball schedule will be released later in fall 2026. Harshman’s appointment gives the Dragons a new head coach for the program while he remains part of the varsity staff.
Harshman Continues With Howard Community College
Harshman joined Howard Community College as an assistant coach in 2024. He helped the Dragons win the 2024-25 NJCAA Region 20 Tournament and reach the national tournament, where Howard advanced to the Elite Eight.
Associate vice president of athletics Mike Smelkinson credited Harshman’s contributions as both a player and assistant coach.
“Cole has contributed to regional titles for us both as a player and an assistant coach,” said associate vice president of athletics Mike Smelkinson. “This is an exciting next step for him in his continued development, and he is ready to begin his head coaching career as a Dragon, while remaining a vital piece to the varsity coaching staff.”
Harshman’s Playing Background
Before joining the coaching staff, Harshman played for Howard Community College from 2019 to 2022 under Smelkinson. The shooting guard made 23 career starts and averaged 6.6 points per game for the Dragons.
Harshman was part of Howard’s 2019-20 Region 20 championship team and helped the Dragons reach the playoffs in both of his seasons. He attended Dulaney High School and played one season for Scotland Prep after graduation.
Harshman initially signed to play for King University in Bristol, Tennessee, before transferring to Howard. After his time with the Dragons, he transferred to Frostburg State University for his final two seasons of eligibility and helped the Bobcats reach the 2024 Mountain East Conference Tournament before graduating at the end of the season.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
Howard Community College Names Cole Harshman Head Coach of JV Men’s Basketball Team is a coaching appointment that keeps Harshman connected to the Dragons’ varsity program. His previous playing and coaching experience at Howard will now accompany his responsibilities as the JV head coach.
The next update will come when Howard Community College releases the full JV men’s basketball schedule later in fall 2026.
Source: Original report
