Hoosiers’ Coaching Search Intensifies as Candidates Emerge

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — As Indiana University prepares to find a new men’s basketball coach following Mike Woodson‘s departure, speculation is mounting around potential candidates, including notable names like Greg McDermott and Chris Beard.

In a recent podcast appearance, former Purdue star and college basketball analyst Robbie Hummel expressed his admiration for McDermott, currently the head coach at Creighton. “I like (Greg) McDermott… He’s a really good coach. His demeanor is perfect for that,” Hummel stated. Under McDermott’s leadership, Creighton has secured a record of 345-169 and is poised for its tenth NCAA Tournament appearance.

McDermott’s success at Creighton, combined with his experience coaching at Northern Iowa and Iowa State, makes him a compelling candidate. Yet, he faces skepticism due to his previous stint at Iowa State, where his performance was rated lower than his current success.

Meanwhile, Chris Beard, currently at Ole Miss, has also been mentioned. Rick Pitino made headlines when he suggested Beard would excel at Indiana, calling him a “superstar and a top 3 coach.” However, Beard’s previous legal troubles, including domestic violence charges that were later dropped, are casting a long shadow over his candidacy.

Scott Drew of Baylor is another name gaining traction. Drew, who led Baylor to a national championship in 2021, has deep roots in Indiana, having grown up in Valparaiso. However, his commitment to Baylor’s resurgence raises questions about his willingness to leave for Indiana.

Other candidates include T.J. Otzelberger, who has had success at Iowa State but recently received a contract extension that could deter him from leaving. Mick Cronin and Brad Brownell are also in the conversation, though both face hurdles in terms of buyouts and prior performances respectively.

Scott Dolson, Indiana’s athletic director, remains tight-lipped regarding his search, employing an executive search firm to handle these sensitive discussions. Dolson understands the significance of this hire and its long-term ramifications on Indiana basketball.

As the coaching carousel spins, insiders continue to discuss various candidates, but clarity on who will take the helm remains elusive. The need for a transformative coach to restore Indiana’s storied basketball program has never been more evident, as the Hoosiers seek a leader who can deliver victories while embracing the rich tradition of the program.