Charleston, SC – The College of Charleston has quickly filled its men’s basketball head coaching vacancy, tapping John Groce to lead the program, sources confirmed Saturday. The move comes less than a week after Chris Mack departed for the University of South Florida. Groce, 54, brings a wealth of experience, including a stint in the Huge Ten and a track record of success at Akron, making him a compelling choice for the Cougars.
Groce’s arrival signals a commitment to sustained competitiveness for the College of Charleston, which has enjoyed recent success under Mack, reaching 20 wins in each of the past two seasons. The program is now looking to build on that foundation with a coach known for building consistent winners. The university is expected to formally introduce Groce at a press conference on Wednesday, according to sources familiar with the planning.
A Proven Winner: Groce’s Record at Akron
During his nine seasons at Akron, Groce compiled an impressive 197-94 record, establishing himself as one of the Mid-American Conference’s most successful coaches. He led the Zips to four MAC Tournament championships, securing automatic bids to the NCAA Tournament in 2022, 2024, 2025, and 2026. His overall coaching record stands at 377-225 across 18 seasons.
This past season, Akron finished with a 29-6 record, falling to Texas Tech in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on March 20. Despite the early exit, the Zips’ performance underscored Groce’s ability to consistently elevate the program. He has achieved at least 20 wins in 10 of his 18 seasons as a head coach, demonstrating a remarkable level of consistency.
From Ohio to Illinois and Back to Building Programs
Groce began his head coaching career at Ohio University from 2008-2012, where he amassed an 85-56 record and led the Bobcats to two NCAA Tournament appearances. In 2012, he orchestrated a memorable Sweet 16 run as a No. 13 seed, a moment that significantly raised his profile in college basketball.
He then took the helm at the University of Illinois from 2012-2017, posting a 95-75 record. Even as at Illinois, he secured only one NCAA Tournament berth, but laid groundwork for future success. His time in the Big Ten provided valuable experience navigating a Power Four conference.
Contract Details and Transition
Akron extended Groce’s contract last season through 2035, a deal that included a base salary of $650,000, potentially rising to $850,000 with incentives and supplements, and two $75,000 retention bonuses. However, the contract also included a $350,000 buyout clause, which College of Charleston will be responsible for paying to secure his services, according to reports.
The transition comes at a pivotal moment for the College of Charleston, which is aiming to establish itself as a consistent contender in the Coastal Athletic Association. Groce’s experience in building programs, coupled with his proven ability to attract talent and achieve success on the court, makes him a strong fit for the Cougars.
What Groce Brings to Charleston
Beyond the win-loss record, Groce is known for his emphasis on player development and a strong team culture. He’s consistently emphasized academic achievement within his programs, and his teams have often been recognized for their sportsmanship. His ability to navigate the transfer portal and identify undervalued talent will be crucial as he looks to build a competitive roster in Charleston.
The College of Charleston community will be watching closely as Groce begins to shape the future of the men’s basketball program. The upcoming press conference on Wednesday will provide a first glimpse into his vision for the team and his plans for continued success.
The College of Charleston men’s basketball program is entering a new era under the leadership of John Groce. His track record of success at multiple institutions, combined with his experience in both mid-major and Power Four conferences, positions him well to elevate the Cougars to new heights. The next step will be the official introduction on Wednesday, where Groce is expected to outline his plans for the program and meet with fans and the media.
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