The 2026 men's college basketball coaching carousel guide - ESPN

ESPN

by Jeff Borzello

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The college basketball coaching carousel is gearing up for another round of changes as schools evaluate whether to retain struggling coaches or pursue new talent. With several high-major programs already open or on the brink of change, the 2026 season could see a significant shuffle in coaching staffs. Kansas State has taken the lead with the departure of Jerome Tang, leaving athletic director Gene Taylor to search for a replacement among names like Jerrod Calhoun and Chris Jans. Meanwhile, Arizona State’s Bobby Hurley is likely on his way out after 11 seasons, with rumors linking him to opportunities closer to his Northeast roots. The decision to keep or replace coaches often hinges on the financial aspect of buyout agreements and whether schools are willing to invest in NIL budgets to retain or attract new talent. Some programs are opting to raise their NIL budgets to either give current coaches one last chance or entice high-profile candidates. This dynamic could influence the type of hires we see, with a mix of lateral moves, mid-major upstarts, and NBA assistants potentially making an impact. Potential retirements and future openings add another layer to this year’s carousel. Coaches like Jeff Capel at Oklahoma and Chris Jans at Mississippi State are under scrutiny, while schools like Boston College and Baylor could also see changes as they assess their programs’ trajectories. The NIL budget strategy is becoming a key tool for schools looking to either retain or replace coaches without immediately triggering hefty buyout costs. For fans of college basketball, this year’s coaching carousel matters because it will shape the future of teams and conferences. Whether through strategic hires or shifts in program direction, these changes could have long-term implications on recruiting, team dynamics, and overall competitiveness. Stay tuned for what promises to be a fascinating season of shake-ups and new beginnings in men’s college basketball.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/25/2026