Breaking: Tucker DeVries is Announced the Hoosiers Men’s Basketball Head Coach — Announcement Made Earlier Today
In a major development for Indiana University basketball, Tucker DeVries has been officially announced as the new head coach of the Hoosiers men’s basketball program. The announcement came earlier today during a press conference held at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington, Indiana, marking a new chapter for one of the most storied programs in college basketball history.
Tucker DeVries, just 24 years old, is already creating waves in the college basketball landscape. The son of longtime Drake University head coach Darian DeVries, Tucker brings a mix of pedigree, modern basketball philosophy, and youthful energy to the role. He is widely known for his exceptional basketball IQ, his leadership on and off the court during his playing career, and his fast rise in coaching circles. DeVries spent the last year as an assistant coach at a mid-major school, and prior to that, was an All-Missouri Valley Conference player at Drake, where he helped lead the Bulldogs to multiple postseason appearances.
University officials praised DeVries’ basketball mind and ability to connect with players, citing those attributes as key factors in the hiring decision. Athletic Director Scott Dolson, who introduced DeVries at the press conference, expressed immense confidence in the young coach’s ability to lead the program forward.
“We wanted a leader who could inspire, who understands the modern college game, and who can relate to our players while demanding excellence,” Dolson said. “Tucker DeVries is that leader. He may be young, but he’s beyond his years in terms of maturity and strategic understanding of the game.”
DeVries steps into a high-pressure position, taking the reins of a program with five national championships and a fiercely passionate fan base. He succeeds Mike Woodson, who parted ways with the Hoosiers after a series of underwhelming seasons despite high expectations. Woodson, a former NBA coach and IU alumnus, struggled to maintain consistency on the court and in recruiting, prompting the university to seek a fresh start.
During his introductory remarks, DeVries acknowledged the weight of the job and the legacy he is now part of.
“I grew up watching Indiana basketball. This program means something to the entire state and to the fabric of college basketball itself,” DeVries said. “It’s an honor to be here. I understand what’s expected, and I’m ready to get to work. We’re going to bring back a culture of intensity, discipline, and pride in wearing the cream and crimson.”
While DeVries has never been a head coach before, sources close to the program say his name stood out in a competitive search process that included several established mid-major and assistant coaches from power conference programs. His fresh perspective, combined with his deep understanding of the game, was viewed as a potential long-term asset, particularly in the era of the transfer portal and NIL deals, which have reshaped the college basketball landscape.
One of DeVries’ immediate tasks will be to solidify the current roster and shore up recruiting. Several players had previously entered the transfer portal following the coaching uncertainty, and it remains to be seen how many may now reconsider. DeVries stated in the press conference that he has already begun reaching out to players and recruits to share his vision for the program.
“I want players who love basketball, who want to compete, and who aren’t afraid to be held accountable,” he said. “Indiana basketball is about toughness, about playing smart, and about doing things the right way. That’s the culture we’re going to build together.”
Fans and analysts are already debating the move, with some calling it bold and visionary, while others question the risk of hiring such a young, relatively unproven coach. But one thing is clear — the Indiana Hoosiers are ready for a new era.
As the college basketball world watches closely, Tucker DeVries will now be tasked with returning the Hoosiers to national relevance. The pressure is high, but so is the excitement.