Cincinnati is poised to usher in a new era of men’s basketball, set to hire Utah State’s Jerrod Calhoun as its next head coach, according to multiple reports. The move comes less than two weeks after the university parted ways with Wes Miller, and signals a determined effort to restore the Bearcats to prominence in the Big 12 Conference. Calhoun, a name familiar to Cincinnati basketball fans, brings a proven track record of success and a deep connection to the program’s past. The focus now shifts to finalizing details and officially introducing Calhoun, a process expected to unfold quickly as Cincinnati looks to build momentum for the upcoming season.
The hiring of Calhoun represents more than just a coaching change; it’s a strategic investment in the future of Cincinnati basketball. The university has reportedly committed to a substantial investment in its Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program, with sources estimating over $10 million dedicated to supporting student-athletes. This financial commitment, coupled with Calhoun’s coaching acumen, is intended to attract and retain top talent, positioning the Bearcats as a consistent contender in a highly competitive landscape. The program’s ability to leverage NIL opportunities will be crucial in navigating the evolving world of college athletics and competing with programs that have already established robust NIL collectives.
A Return to the Queen City
Calhoun’s ties to Cincinnati run deep. He began his coaching career as a student assistant under legendary coach Bob Huggins, a period he often credits with shaping his coaching philosophy. He later rejoined Huggins as the director of basketball operations at West Virginia, further solidifying his understanding of the game and building a network of valuable connections. This familiarity with the program’s history and culture is expected to resonate with fans and alumni, fostering a sense of optimism and shared purpose. His understanding of the city and its basketball traditions could prove invaluable in recruiting and building a strong team identity.
Before returning to the collegiate level, Calhoun honed his skills at the Division II level, achieving remarkable success at Fairmont State, where he compiled a 124-38 record. He then moved on to Youngstown State in 2017, leading the Penguins to two 20-win seasons before accepting the head coaching position at Utah State in 2024. His consistent success at multiple levels demonstrates his ability to build winning programs and develop players, qualities that Cincinnati officials clearly valued during their search.
Success at Utah State
In just two seasons at Utah State, Calhoun quickly established himself as a rising star in the coaching ranks. He led the Aggies to a 55-15 overall record, including consecutive NCAA tournament appearances. This year, Utah State even secured a first-round victory over Villanova, showcasing Calhoun’s ability to prepare his team for the national stage. The Aggies’ recent success under Calhoun is a testament to his strategic coaching, player development skills, and ability to create a winning culture.
Utah State’s tournament run concluded Sunday night with a loss to No. 1 seed Arizona in the West Region.
Cincinnati is set to hire Utah State coach Jerrod Calhoun, sources share @On3sports. https://t.co/wJq9w9wJ9q
— On3 (@On3) March 26, 2024
Looking Ahead for the Bearcats
Cincinnati’s decision to move on from Wes Miller came after five seasons where the Bearcats failed to reach the NCAA tournament. Miller’s tenure, while marked by effort and dedication, ultimately fell short of the program’s expectations. The last time Cincinnati enjoyed consecutive NCAA tournament appearances was during Mick Cronin’s tenure in 2018 and 2019. Calhoun is widely expected to restore that level of consistency and competitiveness to the program.
The financial implications of Calhoun’s departure from Utah State are also noteworthy. Reports indicate a buyout clause of approximately $4 million. Cincinnati’s willingness to absorb this cost underscores the university’s commitment to securing Calhoun’s services and investing in the future of its basketball program. The financial commitment signals a clear message to the Big 12 and the college basketball landscape: Cincinnati is serious about competing at the highest level.
As Calhoun prepares to return to Cincinnati, he inherits a program with a rich history and a passionate fanbase. The challenge ahead will be to navigate the complexities of the modern college basketball landscape, build a competitive roster, and restore the Bearcats to their former glory. The combination of his coaching experience, his deep ties to the program, and the university’s financial commitment creates a foundation for success. The next step will be the official announcement and the beginning of a new chapter for Cincinnati basketball.
The university has not yet announced a formal press conference or timeline for the official introduction of Coach Calhoun. Updates will be available on the Cincinnati Athletics website: https://gobearcats.com/.
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