Former Arizona star Jason Terry is headed back to the desert.

Arizona hired Terry as an assistant basketball coach Thursday, filling a hole on Sean Miller's staff after Justin Gainey left to become Marquette's associate head coach.

“My family and I are excited to be part of the incredible Tucson community again, where our story began,” Terry said in a statement. “I am looking forward to joining coach Miller and staff to develop student-athletes that have a passion for education, basketball excellence and community leadership.”

Terry won a national championship with Arizona in 1997 and became one of six men's basketball players to have his jersey number rhung in the rafters at McKale Center.

Terry played under Hall of Fame coach Lute Olson from 1995-99, averaging 21.9 points, 5.5 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 2.8 steals as a senior. He went on to play 19 NBA seasons with Atlanta, Dallas, Boston, Brooklyn, Houston and Milwaukee.

He was named assistant general manager for the Texas Legends of the NBA G-League in 2019.

“Jason’s knowledge of the game along with his charisma and competitive spirit are qualities that will make him an exceptional coach," Miller said in a statement. "He will impact and energize our current players as well as our recruiting efforts in a major way. We look forward to having back on our sideline in the McKale Center.”

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