Mike Woodson Steps Down at Indiana, Eyes NBA Return with Sacramento Kings
Mike Woodson has officially concluded his tenure as head coach of Indiana University’s men’s basketball program, ending a four-year stint that saw him post an overall record of 82–53. With a new chapter on the horizon, Woodson is now a top candidate for the Sacramento Kings’ lead assistant coach role, potentially replacing Doug Christie.
🏀 Four Seasons at Indiana
Woodson returned to his alma mater in 2021, tasked with reviving a historic program. During his time in Bloomington, he helped re-establish Indiana as a tournament contender, emphasizing defense, discipline, and player development.
- Led the Hoosiers to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances
- Developed NBA-level talent and recruited top Midwest prospects
- Finished with a .607 winning percentage over four seasons
While expectations remained high, Indiana never fully broke through into national title contention under his leadership.
“I gave everything I had to this university. I’m proud of what we built,” Woodson said in a farewell statement.
🔄 Darian DeVries Hired as Successor
Indiana has moved quickly to appoint Darian DeVries, who most recently coached at West Virginia, as the new head coach.
- DeVries is known for fast-paced offenses and gritty defensive units
- Brings a reputation for maximizing under-the-radar talent
- Will look to push Indiana deeper into March Madness in coming seasons
His arrival signals a shift toward a more aggressive, up-tempo approach in the Big Ten.
🏀 Woodson’s Next Move: NBA Return?
With his college chapter closed, Woodson appears poised to return to the NBA sidelines, where he previously served as a head coach for the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks. He is now reportedly the frontrunner to become the Sacramento Kings’ lead assistant, should the team part ways with Doug Christie.
- Kings value Woodson’s veteran leadership and defensive acumen
- Would join head coach Mike Brown’s staff in Sacramento
- Seen as a stabilizing force for a young and rising Kings roster
The move would reunite Woodson with the NBA after nearly a decade away from pro-level coaching.
📰 Final Thoughts
Mike Woodson’s departure from Indiana marks the end of a meaningful era—and potentially the start of a new NBA chapter. With Darian DeVries now taking the reins in Bloomington, and Woodson circling back to the pros, both IU and Sacramento appear poised for transformative shifts.
Was Woodson’s tenure at Indiana a success? Will he thrive back in the NBA as a lead assistant?
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