Dana Dunson is a seasoned basketball coach and community leader from Bloomington, Illinois, whose coaching career spans multiple levels and decades. A graduate of both Parkland College and Drake University, Dana brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the game to every program he leads.
Dana’s playing career began at Parkland College from 1980–1981, where he earned NJCAA Division II All-American Honorable Mention honors. During his time with the Cobras, he led the team in scoring, rebounding, and assists, and was named MVP of three tournaments. He helped guide the team to a historic upset over No. 1-ranked Kankakee Community College—Parkland’s first win over a top-ranked opponent.
His coaching journey has included roles across both boys and girls basketball programs. He previously served as the head boys coach at Metcalf Lab School and Bay City Catholic High School—where he also held the role of athletic director. Dana later led boys programs at Loyola College Prep and girls programs at Woodlawn High School, both in Shreveport, Louisiana. He also coached at the semi-professional level, guiding the Shreveport-Bossier Knights in a men’s summer league.
Dana spent five seasons at Centenary College, serving three years as an assistant coach before being named the interim head coach for two seasons (2021–2023). In 2023, he was announced as the new head women’s basketball coach at Indiana University Columbus, bringing with him decades of leadership, competitive experience, and a lifelong commitment to player development.