FORT COLLINS, CO — In a significant move for the Colorado State University (CSU) men’s basketball program, Ali Farokhmanesh has been appointed as the new head coach following the departure of Niko Medved to the University of Minnesota. The announcement came on March 26, 2025, after a swift 24-hour search for Medved's replacement.
Farokhmanesh, a celebrated figure in college basketball, is best known for his iconic game-winning three-pointer that propelled the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) past the top-seeded Kansas Jayhawks during the 2010 NCAA Tournament, sending his team to the Sweet 16 for the first time in program history. His transition from a player to a head coach marks a new chapter not only for him but also for the CSU Rams, who are looking to build on their recent successes.
CSU athletic director John Weber expressed his enthusiasm for the hire, stating, "Ali has a relentless attitude that he attacks each day with, which was important to us as we looked for the next leader of our men's basketball program." He acknowledged the significant interest in the head coach position at CSU and emphasized the excitement surrounding Farokhmanesh's leadership as the program seeks to continue its upward trajectory.
During his time as an assistant coach at CSU, Farokhmanesh has played a crucial role in the team’s achievements, helping guide the Rams to NCAA tournament appearances in three of the last four seasons. Under Medved, who led the team for seven seasons, the Rams achieved a record of 143-85, including three seasons with 25 or more wins. The Rams also won the Mountain West Conference Tournament and made a notable upset against Memphis in this year’s NCAA opener.
Farokhmanesh, who is 36 years old, has been part of the CSU coaching staff for the past eight years, following Medved from Drake University to Fort Collins. His familiarity with the program and its players, including star guards Isaiah Stevens and Kyan Evans, who he helped recruit and develop, positions him well to take the Rams to new heights.
In a statement regarding his new role, Farokhmanesh expressed his eagerness to build upon the foundation established by the previous coaching staff. He said, "I can't wait to continue to build off the championship foundation our players have established and push it to greater heights." This sentiment reflects his commitment to maintaining the program's competitive edge and fostering a winning culture.
The university has scheduled an introductory press conference for Farokhmanesh at 11 a.m. on March 28, 2025, at Moby Arena, which will be open to the public. This event will provide an opportunity for fans and media to hear directly from the new head coach about his vision for the team.
As the Rams look ahead, they are coming off back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, a testament to the program's growth and competitiveness in recent years. The departure of Medved, who is taking on a challenging role at his alma mater, has left a significant void, but the promotion of Farokhmanesh is seen as a strategic move to ensure continuity and stability within the team.
Farokhmanesh's journey from a player who made headlines for his clutch performances to a head coach reflects his deep understanding of the game and what it takes to succeed at the collegiate level. His experience playing professionally in Europe, including stints in the Netherlands, Austria, and Switzerland, has further enriched his coaching perspective.
With Farokhmanesh at the helm, CSU fans are hopeful that the team will continue to thrive in the competitive landscape of college basketball. The upcoming season will be crucial as he implements his strategies and builds relationships with the players, aiming to enhance their skills and foster teamwork.
As the basketball community watches closely, the excitement surrounding Farokhmanesh's appointment underscores the potential for a bright future for Colorado State men's basketball. With his background, experience, and passion for the game, he is poised to lead the Rams into a new era of success.
