Basketball history is full of legendary coaches who’ve left their mark on the NCAA Tournament. While every once in a while, a young, shining star breaks free and clinches a title, more often in the sport, coaches hit their peak later in life, proving age doesn’t dim talent or drive.
Let’s take a look at the top five oldest coaches to win an NCAA Tournament in both women’s and men’s college basketball.
Top 5 Oldest Coaches To Win an NCAA Tournament
1. Geno Auriemma, 2025 UConn [Women’s]: 71 years old
Geno Auriemma cemented his legacy on Sunday by steering UConn’s women’s team to a 12th national championship—this time against the No. 1 seed South Carolina Gamecocks.
Born March 23, 1954, he was 71 years old, making him the oldest coach ever to win an NCAA Division I title as of today, April 7, 2025.
2. Jim Calhoun, 2011 UConn: 68 years old
Jim Calhoun brought UConn’s men’s team to glory on April 4, 2011, with a tight 53-41 win over Butler.
Born May 10, 1942, he was just shy of 69—68 years and nearly 11 months—making him the oldest men’s coach to snag the NCAA crown at that time. Calhoun’s no-nonsense style turned UConn into a powerhouse. His 2011 triumph was his third title, a testament to his enduring skill on the sidelines.
3) Phog Allen, 1952 Kansas: 66 years, 4 months old
On March 26, 1952, Phog Allen led Kansas to a 62-49 victory over St. John’s, securing an NCAA title. Born November 18, 1885, he was 66 years and 4 months old when he cut down the nets.
Allen’s name is a legend in basketball history. He coached at Kansas for decades and shaped the game, leading to the program even naming its arena after him. His 1952 win showcased his skill for getting the best out of his players, even in his mid-60s.
4. Roy Williams, 2017 North Carolina: 66 years, 8 months old
Roy Williams clinched his third NCAA title with North Carolina on April 3, 2017, edging out Gonzaga 71-65. He was born on August 1, 1950, and was 66 years and 8 months old.
Williams built a reputation for consistency and toughness at UNC. His 2017 championship run highlighted his ability to rally a team through a grueling tournament, adding to his already impressive resume.
5) Mike Krzyzewski, 2015 Duke: 65 years old
Mike Krzyzewski, known as “Coach K,” guided Duke to a 68-63 win over Wisconsin on April 6, 2015, earning his fifth NCAA title. He was 65 years old, Born February 13, 1947.
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His 2015 victory underscored his power among college basketball’s elite, even as he neared retirement age.
Honorable Mention: Kelvin Sampson?
As of April 7, 2025, Kelvin Sampson, at 69, has a chance to join this list when he leads Houston against Florida in the national championship Monday night.
Born October 5, 1955, he’ll turn 70 this fall. If he wins, he’d top Jim Calhoun as the oldest men’s coach to take the title.
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