Indiana University has officially introduced Darian DeVries as the new head coach of its men's basketball team, a decision made public on March 18, 2025. DeVries takes over the reins from Mike Woodson, who resigned after leading the team to a record of 19-13 in his fourth season. Woodson's departure was announced earlier in February, and there was a swift transition to find a successor once the Hoosiers concluded their season without qualifying for the NCAA Tournament.
The hiring of DeVries signals a fresh start for a storied basketball program that has experienced a challenging few years. Indiana Athletic Director Scott Dolson emphasized that DeVries emerged as a standout candidate during the search process. “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 stated in a release. He further remarked on DeVries' vision for developing a championship culture within the program.
DeVries comes to Indiana after spending a single season at West Virginia, where he achieved a record of 19-13. Notably, West Virginia was the first team left out of the NCAA Tournament despite wins against notable competition like Gonzaga and Arizona. Dolson noted that DeVries took over a last-place team in the Big 12 and more than doubled its win total in just one season, showcasing his coaching effectiveness.
Pamela Whitten, President of Indiana University, expressed confidence in DeVries' ability to elevate the program. “Darian has demonstrated that he embraces Indiana's elite standard in everything from academics to athletics,” Whitten said. She went on to highlight DeVries' successful track record of turning around programs and underscored the significance of this day for Indiana basketball.
DeVries himself reflected on his new position, acknowledging Indiana’s prestigious history and the immense support for the program. “This is unquestionably one of the top jobs in America. 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,” he noted in the press release. His experience includes a successful stint at Drake University, where he coached for six years before moving to West Virginia. At Drake, he posted an impressive 150-55 record, leading the Bulldogs to three NCAA Tournament appearances and several conference championships.
Throughout his career, DeVries has accumulated considerable accolades, including being named the Mountain Valley Conference Coach of the Year in both 2019 and 2021. His credentials reflect a deep understanding of the game and a commitment to cultivating talent. With his extensive D-1 coaching experience, which includes some 15 NCAA Tournament trips either as a head coach or assistant, DeVries is viewed as a fitting leader to reclaim the excellence associated with Indiana basketball.
While DeVries will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, he will also face significant challenges. The Indiana program has struggled to find consistent success over the years, having made the NCAA Tournament only nine times in the last 22 years, with just two appearances in the past nine seasons. This downward trajectory has been stark for a program once famous for its championship legacy, including five national titles and a tradition of basketball superiority.
In the immediate aftermath of Woodson's exit, DeVries will need to reinvigorate a team that has faced its own setbacks. Indiana's recent trend of failing to advance past the Sweet 16 since 2002 further emphasizes the hurdles that lie ahead. Adding to the complexity, DeVries will be stepping into a role with high expectations from fans and alumni who are eager to restore the program’s former glory.
One immediate concern for DeVries will be to assemble a staff and recruit talented players capable of competing at the highest levels. Indiana is situated in a talent-rich environment, and with strong financial backing for the program—ranking seventh in spending among Division I programs—there are ample resources to support his efforts.
As DeVries embarks on this new chapter, he acknowledges the weight of the responsibility at hand. His success will not only depend on his coaching acumen but also on fostering a culture that encourages players to excel both on and off the court. “I’m excited for this opportunity and am ready to work relentlessly to assemble a staff and a roster that competes for championships,” DeVries stated confidently.
The appointment of Darian DeVries marks a significant milestone for Indiana basketball as the university aims to reclaim its spot among the elite programs in college basketball. With a combination of lofty expectations and a storied history, this new venture promises to be a compelling journey for DeVries and the Hoosiers.
