Darian DeVries is set to lead Indiana's basketball program after being named the new head coach on March 18, 2025. The decision comes on the heels of Mike Woodson's announcement in early February that he would step down following the 2024-25 season.
DeVries, who spent only one season at West Virginia where he accumulated a 19-13 record, is best known for his successful six-year tenure at Drake University. At Drake, DeVries tallied an impressive 150-55 record, leading the Bulldogs to three NCAA tournaments and earning Missouri Valley Conference Coach of the Year honors twice.
Indiana Athletic Director Scott Dolson was enthusiastic about DeVries' hiring, 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." Dolson noted DeVries' vision for building a competitive program, highlighting his ability to create a championship culture.
In his single season at West Virginia, DeVries faced challenges after losing his son, Tucker DeVries, to a season-ending shoulder injury. Despite that blow, he led the Mountaineers to significant victories over ranked teams, including No. 2 Iowa State and No. 3 Gonzaga. His standout coaching earned him midseason national coach of the year honors.
Tucker DeVries has confirmed that he will follow his father to Bloomington. Before his injury, he averaged 14.9 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, showcasing what he brings to Indiana's upcoming roster.
As Indiana looks toward the next season, the team faces a notable challenge in player recruitment and roster building. Currently, only eight scholarship players are returning, including two incoming freshmen. The Hoosiers are bracing for a busy offseason filled with transfers from the NCAA portal.
A few standout players are already attracting attention. Among them is Owen Freeman, who recently entered the portal and was a former target for Indiana during high school. Freeman averaged 16.7 points and 6.7 rebounds last season at Iowa, making him a viable option for a frontcourt player next season.
Another potential addition includes Kennard Davis, who put up 16.3 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Southern Illinois, shooting 37.9 percent from beyond the arc. His ability to contribute offensively while offering two-way play could provide the depth Indiana needs as they work to rebuild their roster.
DeVries will also look at All Wright, who shone at Valparaiso last season with averages of 15.8 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Wright was particularly dynamic in the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament, demonstrating that he can step up when it matters.
While there is excitement around the transition, DeVries' path to success at Indiana won't be without its perceived hurdles. The pressure to win at a historic program like Indiana is immense, where the expectations are high among fans and alumni alike. The university's storied basketball history, filled with legendary figures and impressive championships, adds both prestige and pressure to the position.
As he embarks on this new journey, DeVries reflects the enthusiasm many have for Indiana basketball. In a statement announcing his hiring, he expressed his admiration for the program: "This is unquestionably one of the top jobs in America. As someone who grew up in the Midwest loving the game of basketball, I've always admired the IU Basketball program for its championship-level success, tradition, and fan support."
DeVries has plans to build a successful roster by not only leveraging his vast knowledge and connections in the Midwest but also by utilizing the transfer portal to find the right talent. The Hoosiers aim to make a splash this offseason, potentially bringing in several new faces to contribute to their 2025-26 season. DeVries' tenure at Indiana could indeed usher in a new era, infused with a fierce determination to reclaim a spot among college basketball's elite.
As the news of this significant hire spreads, all eyes will be on Indiana's rebuilding efforts and how DeVries will navigate the challenges of the upcoming season. The results of his strategies in the transfer portal and his ability to cultivate a competitive team will ultimately determine his legacy at one of the most recognized programs in college basketball.
