As we approach the end of April, it is a great time to reflect on the past season and recognize which coaching hires made an immediate impact. This year, there were over 60 coaching hires, with 16 coaches standing out for their impressive debut seasons.
At the high-major level, only two coaches had notably successful seasons in 2023. However, there were a handful of power-conference coaches who did well overall. Despite not making the NCAA Tournament, two first-year high-major coaches still had solid seasons and ratings. It is important to note that recognition is not limited to NCAA Tournament appearances and small-school coaches who excelled in their first year were also acknowledged.
Four of those small-school coaches made it to the NCAA Tournament in their debut seasons, and two of them have already moved on to new opportunities. In addition to the high-major and mid-major levels, nearly 50 coaching changes occurred at the mid-major level, with eleven first-year hires making a significant impact.
Overall, a successful first year can greatly help with recruiting through the transfer portal. It may not guarantee success in future years, but it certainly helps build momentum for a program’s long term success.
