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Candidates for Michigan Basketball Head Coach Search in NCAA Tournament
Michigan basketball is actively considering potential coaching candidates participating in the NCAA Tournament.
By Andrew Kahn | akahn1@mlive.com
The NCAA men’s basketball Tournament is in progress, and Michigan’s next head coach could emerge from the tournament participants.
Athletic director Warde Manuel aims to expedite the hiring process while ensuring a thorough search. Unlike the last coaching search five years ago, which concluded swiftly with the appointment of Juwan Howard, this process allows more time for evaluation. The transfer portal’s opening has accelerated coaching changes, emphasizing the need for a new coach to shape next year’s roster.
Michigan faces competition for its coach, particularly from Louisville and other high-profile programs with coaching vacancies. Michigan’s affiliation with the Big Ten should attract candidates familiar with the conference’s competitiveness.
While Michigan has not hired a search firm yet, the process will differ significantly from previous coaching transitions. Here are some realistic coaching candidates from this week’s NCAA Tournament:
1. Dusty May (Florida Atlantic)
May has demonstrated potential with Florida Atlantic’s NCAA Tournament appearance and Midwest connections.
2. T.J. Otzelberger (Iowa State)
Otzelberger has a successful coaching record, notably improving Iowa State’s performance in the Big 12.
3. Niko Medved (Colorado State)
Medved’s coaching style and recent Tournament success make him an intriguing candidate.
4. Darian DeVries (Drake)
DeVries’ accomplishments at Drake, including NCAA Tournament appearances, make him a contender worth considering.
Other potential candidates were considered but are unlikely to leave their current positions. The coaching search is in its early stages, and Manuel and Michigan are focused on finding the right fit for the program’s future.
