When Darian DeVries accepted the head coaching role at Indiana University in March 2025, he stepped into one of the most reputable programs in college basketball. But with great opportunity comes great pressure.
In a recent episode of “The Field of 68” podcast, analyst Matt McCall pinpointed the defining factor for DeVries’ tenure and discussed what he needs to do to make sure he succeeds where his predecessors failed.
Expert Analyzes What Darian Devries Needs To Be Successful In Indiana
DeVries previously coached at Drake University and West Virginia and arrived in Bloomington with a strong resume. At Drake, he led the Bulldogs to two NCAA Tournament appearances and was named Missouri Valley Conference Coach of the Year twice in three seasons.
His 2022-23 season at Drake saw the team finish with a 27-8 record, which proves his ability to build a winning program. However, Indiana is a completely different beast than Drake and WV. The Hoosiers haven’t reached the Final Four since 2002, making the fans hungry for a win.
Matt McCall, a former Chattanooga head coach, talked about this challenge on an episode of The Field of 68 podcast. “How will Darian DeVries engage this Indiana fanbase?” he asked. “The guy can absolutely coach. But that’s gonna be the difference maker. That’s what is gonna make or break his career at Indiana,” said McCall.
Before Devries, Tom Crean, who led the Hoosiers to three Sweet 16 appearances between 2009 and 2017, was still “ran out of town,” as McCall put it, despite his success. Archie Miller, Crean’s successor, struggled to a 67-58 record over four seasons, with no NCAA Tournament wins.
Miller’s tenure was undermined by a lack of offensive strength and fan support, a point McCall attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mike Woodson followed after him, but his 2024 dismissal after failing to meet expectations paved the way for DeVries.
DeVries has already shown his potential through his latest recruiting strategies, securing commitments from talented transfers and high school prospects. At his introductory press conference, he called Indiana “a dream job for anyone,” especially for a Midwest native like himself.
But as McCall noted, coaching ability alone won’t be enough for him. DeVries must embrace the culture of Indiana basketball, attend local events, connect with alumni, and show fans he understands their expectations.
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The 2025-26 season will be significant for DeVries. A deep tournament run could cement his place in Indiana’s hall of fame, but another early exit might fuel the same discontent that ran out his predecessors. With his track record, DeVries has the tools to succeed. The question is whether he can fit well with a fanbase that’s desperate for a new hero.
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