For nearly a quarter-century, JP Andrejko’s sideline presence defined King’s College basketball. Whether wearing a sport coat or a comfortable quarter-zip, his courtside routine became tradition. With his departure, the Monarchs bid farewell to a coach whose message remained constant through every game.
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Andrejko retires as King’s College men’s basketball coach
Photo by Citizens' Voice
Key Takeaways:
- JP Andrejko served as King’s College men’s basketball coach for 24 years
- His pre-game routine included greeting the opposing coach and giving last-minute instructions
- He famously took off his sport coat before coaching from the sideline
- He eventually swapped the coat for a quarter-zip pullover but kept his approach intact
- His retirement brings a significant transition for the King’s College program
Coaching Traditions
For the last 24 years, JP Andrejko’s name was synonymous with King’s College basketball. Before each game, he would walk out of the locker room, exchange pleasantries with the opposing coach, and wait for his starters to be introduced. “Shortly after the fifth starter’s name was announced, the players would circle Andrejko for some last-minute instruction,” the original news report notes.
Signature Sideline Style
Once the players were huddled and ready, Andrejko followed a familiar routine: he shed his sport coat and placed it on the back of his chair. This habit became a defining feature of his courtside persona. From that point on, he would pace the sidelines, calling plays and setting up the defense—an unwavering presence focused on guiding his team.
Evolving Attire, Unchanging Message
As the seasons went by, Andrejko traded in the jacket for a quarter-zip pullover. Yet, according to the original story, “the message was always […]” consistent with the principles that had guided him for decades. While his wardrobe shifted, his passion for helping his players succeed remained the same.
Impact at King’s College
Under Andrejko’s watch, a recognizable blend of routine and respect took shape. Each game began and ended in a similar fashion, reflecting the coach’s steady leadership. Current and former players alike knew what to expect from him—discipline on the floor and a belief in fundamentals.
Closing an Era
Now, Andrejko retires from a post he held for nearly a quarter-century. For King’s College, his departure represents a major transition—and for the coach himself, it marks the end of a notable chapter in local collegiate sports. As King’s moves forward, the legacy of his traditions will endure on the hardwood where he once stood.
