Gone are the days of lengthy test runs for first-year coaches in college basketball, as it now revolves around immediate impact. For instance, programs like Louisville and Michigan exemplify this shift, turning their seasons around under new leadership.

In the 2024-25 season, Michigan improved from a dismal 8-24 record to a notable 27-10, reaching the Sweet 16 under coach Dusty May. Similarly, Louisville transformed from 8-24 to 27-8 within just one season under Pat Kelsey.

However, transitions haven’t been smooth for everyone. Teams such as DePaul, Ohio State, and West Virginia faced challenges, failing to make it to the NCAA Tournament under their new coaches.

Meanwhile, teams like BYU, Kentucky, and Vanderbilt reaped significant benefits by swiftly assembling competitive rosters.

We will explore how the new coaches are shaping their teams for the upcoming season, highlighting their strategies and potential prospects.