Hiring the right coach during the annual spring college basketball coaching carousel can dramatically change a program’s fortunes. In past cycles, numerous coaches from mid-major backgrounds have successfully transitioned to more prominent roles. This article highlights 13 mid-major coaching candidates who are well-positioned for promotion this cycle.

Mitch Henderson, Princeton
Age: 49
Experience: Princeton, 2011-2025
Overall record: 251–131 (.657)
2024-25 record: 19-10
The case for Henderson: Henderson has consistently excelled at Princeton, winning multiple Ivy League titles and leading his team to the Sweet 16.

Ross Hodge, North Texas
Age: 44
Experience: North Texas, 2023-2025
Overall record: 42-22 (.666)
2024-25 record: 23-7
The case for Hodge: After guiding North Texas through significant achievements despite low expectations, he has proven to be a formidable coach.

(Similar details follow for each candidate highlighted in the article, detailing their background, achievements, and coaching philosophies.)