Indiana University has officially hired Darian DeVries as its new men’s basketball head coach, as announced on March 18, 2025. DeVries, who was previously at West Virginia, will take over a program that has had its share of challenges in recent years.
DeVries, 49, succeeds Mike Woodson, who announced earlier in February that he would step down after his fourth season. Woodson led the Hoosiers to the NCAA tournament in his first two years, but Indiana has struggled lately, missing out on the tournament in the last two consecutive seasons. Last season, both Indiana and West Virginia were among the first four teams left out of the prestigious event.
This marked a significant change for DeVries, who only spent one season with the Mountaineers. In his debut season, he led the team to a respectable record of 19-13, with 10 victories in Big 12 play, including impressive non-conference wins over Gonzaga and Arizona. However, West Virginia was not chosen to compete in the NCAA tournament, raising eyebrows in college basketball circles, particularly because some believed their resume warranted inclusion.
Indiana athletic director Scott Dolson expressed confidence in DeVries, stating, "We went into this coaching search with some very specific things we were looking for in our next head coach, and Darian emerged as someone who, on paper, met and often exceeded our criteria." He acknowledged DeVries' extensive experience in building competitive programs and his capability to foster a championship culture.
Prior to his stint at West Virginia, DeVries built an impressive track record at Drake University, where he amassed a 150-55 record over six seasons. Under his guidance, the Bulldogs clinched three NCAA tournament berths in four years and dominated the Missouri Valley Conference scene, winning both the regular-season and tournament championships multiple times.
DeVries emphasized the significance of his new role at Indiana, stating, "This is unquestionably one of the top jobs in America." He articulated his admiration for Indiana basketball, referencing its storied tradition, championship-level aspirations, and passionate fan base. He noted, "There’s a passion to succeed at the very highest levels both within the Big Ten and in the NCAA Tournament, and that's a desire that as a coach I share."
His departure from West Virginia came after extensive discussions with athletic director Wren Baker. In a statement, Baker noted, "Coach DeVries informed me of his plans to accept the head coaching position at another institution. I made it clear to him that WVU is committed to invest in him and provide the resources needed to compete in the Big 12 and nationally. Ultimately, he decided to move on, and I want to thank him for his time at WVU."
The shifting dynamics at West Virginia and Indiana highlight the competitive landscape of college basketball. DeVries' exit will make it the third head coaching change for the Mountaineers in less than two years, following Josh Eilert’s interim appointment after Bob Huggins resigned in June 2023.
Now, as DeVries embarks on this new chapter, he aims to restore Indiana’s status as a force in college basketball. The Hoosiers, a historically successful program with five national championships, have struggled to compete at the highest levels in recent years, with only one Final Four appearance since 2002. In fact, they've had difficulties even advancing past the first weekend of the tournament, last making the Sweet 16 in 2016.
As DeVries settles into his role, he will focus on assembling a competitive roster that meets the high expectations of Indiana's loyal fan base. Furthermore, he faces the added task of potentially bringing his son, Tucker DeVries, into the fold again. Tucker played at Drake and moved to West Virginia with his father but faced injury issues this past season.
The DeVries family brings a competitive mindset and a seasoned coach with a successful track record to Indiana. All eyes will be on them as they navigate the challenges ahead, striving to rekindle the glory days of Hoosier basketball.
