Mike Woodson’s return to Indiana in 2021 as head basketball coach was a nostalgic homecoming. Woodson was a former All-American under Bob Knight, who played a significant role in restoring the Hoosiers to glory.
However, despite his contributions, in February 2025, Indiana announced his departure at the season’s end, concluding a four-year chapter that Indiana had under Woodson’s coaching talent. If you are wondering why Woodson left and what drove him back to the NBA, keep reading, as we have shared everything we know.
Did Indiana Make a Mistake by Firing Mike Woodson?
Mike Woodson, 66, took the Hoosiers’ reins in March 2021, inheriting a program that desperately needed stability. Still, his early tenure was promising. In 2021-22 and 2022-23, he guided Indiana to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, a feat the program hadn’t achieved since 2015-16.
Under his guidance, Trayce Jackson-Davis developed into a consensus All-American and the program’s all-time leader in rebounds and blocks. Jalen Hood-Schifino also emerged as an NBA draft pick. Many believe Woodson’s coaching significantly influenced Indiana’s return to relevance.
However, the 2024-25 season unfolded differently. The Hoosiers finished with a 19-13 overall record and a 10-10 Big Ten record, missing the NCAA Tournament and declining postseason invitations. This disappointing season frustrated fans, particularly with Woodson’s reliance on traditional post play.
Indiana ranked 328th nationally in three-point attempt rate. Criticism also grew regarding roster construction, with the team lacking consistent perimeter shooting.
Many believe this performance led to Woodson’s termination. Indiana’s announcement in February 2025 described Woodson’s exit as a mutual decision; nevertheless, reports suggest pressure from boosters and fan dissatisfaction played a role.
His $4.2 million annual contract, extended through the 2026-27 season, included a substantial buyout, estimated at over $8 million, making early termination quite costly for the program. Instead, Woodson agreed to step down, allowing Indiana to avoid the financial burden.
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Days after his departure, reports linked Woodson to an assistant coaching role with the Sacramento Kings. At 66, Woodson’s NBA experience, with 315 wins as head coach of the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks, made him a valuable asset. On March 18, Indiana introduced Darian DeVries, formerly of West Virginia, as its new head coach.
Indiana’s decision to move on from Woodson has divided fans. Supporters argue his 82-53 record and two NCAA appearances brought stability to the program, highlighting Jackson-Davis’ development as a key achievement. However, critics point to the lack of deep tournament runs and outdated strategies as a necessary reason for change.
The Hoosiers’ 0-2 NCAA Tournament record under Woodson fell short of the program’s championship aspirations.
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