Now available: coaching resumes for everybody that has been a D-I head coach since 2003. Much thanks to Josh Riddell, owner and operator of The Mikan Drill, (and whose insights can also be found on twitter @TheMikanDrill), for helping to put together a database of coaches for the past ten seasons and making this project possible. (You can access a coach’s resume from the link on the appropriate team page.)
Today for the first time, you can see in one glance the insanity of Joe Scott, the metamorphosis of Jeff Bzdelik, and the single-mindedness of Leonard Hamilton. Who can use coaching resumes? Why, everybody who likes college basketball.
For fans, the possibilities are endless. Determine the tendencies of your coach. Get information on other coaches that would be a good replacement for your coach. Or just the enjoy the quirks of college hoops’ program leaders. For instance, admire the paradox that is Chattanooga coach John Shulman. Long-time proponent of encouraging the opponent to shoot threes, presumably because it’s good for the defense, his offense also shoots more threes than almost any other team. And what’s the deal with Wofford head coach Mike Young? There’s a long track record of lackluster defensive play, except for 2010 when the Terriers posted one of the best defensive seasons the SoCon has seen.
Athletic directors, before you throw money at the Parker Executive Search consider what you desire in a head coach. Looking for up-tempo play and an emphasis on defense? Double-check your candidate’s credentials before you hire him. Sorry, Ron Hunter, I’m skeptical. And while salivating over Brad Stevens and Shaka Smart is appropriate, save some saliva for Gregg Marshall. His track record is very impressive as well.
Coaches, get a reality check on your on coaching philosophy. Need to beef up your offense? Seek out peers that have experience running great offenses! (Mike Brey or Billy Donovan are good people to start with.) You can also chart your own progress from year-to-year. See the effect of overhauling your offense in amazing technicolor glory.
And finally, media types can use the resumes to add depth to their story on a coach. Stunned by Gary Williams’ eschewing the three-point shot last season? Don’t be! He has a long history of doing so. In fact, once Bob Knight decides to hang it up as an ESPN analyst, Gary Williams would be a suitable replacement. Down with three-point shots! Up with practicing free throws!
The frustrating days of spending hours on research for a story are over, at least for research relating to a coach and his statistical tendencies since 2003. I hope you enjoy coaching resumes as much as I do.