Earl Boykins

Biography

Earl Boykins, a 13-year NBA veteran and one of the most respected player development minds in college basketball, enters his first season as an assistant coach at USC. He was hired on May 30, 2025, joining head coach Eric Musselman’s staff as they head into their second season competing in the Big Ten Conference. Boykins reunites with Musselman at USC as the two share a long-standing connection that dates back to 1999 when Musselman was an assistant coach with the Orlando Magic and Boykins was just beginning his professional career. Boykins later played for him during the 2002–03 NBA season with the Golden State Warriors, when Musselman served as head coach. One of the most inspirational figures in basketball history, Boykins defied expectations at every level. Standing at 5’5, he enjoyed a successful NBA career that spanned more than a decade, playing in over 650 games with teams including the Los Angeles Clippers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Orlando Magic and Washington Wizards. Known for his elite quickness, scoring ability, and leadership, Boykins totaled nearly 5,800 points and more than 2,000 assists during his NBA career. He also played internationally, leading Virtus Bologna to a EuroChallenge Cup championship in 2009. Most recently, Boykins served as an assistant coach at UTEP from 2021-25, where he played a critical role in building a competitive culture. Under his guidance, the Miners recorded multip