March Madness has returned, capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts as the NCAA tournament is set to commence this week. Alongside remarkable athletic talent, thrilling buzzer-beaters, shocking upsets, and inspiring narratives, some spectators will again notice a notable visual contrast in college basketball: predominantly Black players being coached by mainly white coaches.
The existing gap in representation between coaches and players persists, even though there has been a slight decrease in this disparity in recent years. According to the NCAA Demographics Database, in 2024, 52% of all Division I basketball players identified as Black (a decrease from 56% in 2019), as compared to 25% who were White. In contrast, only 31% of coaches were Black (increasing from 28% in 2019 but decreasing from 33% in 2023), while 64% were White. However, the proportion of Black assistant coaches in Division I college basketball has maintained stability at approximately 47%, down from 48% in 2019.
In the wake of the unrest following George Floyd’s death, many sectors, including collegiate athletics, made efforts to recruit qualified diverse candidates. Yet, there remains an anxiety that any progress could swiftly reverse. “I also know that there is going to be some backlash; I know some people aren’t supportive of the changes because they believe it’s affecting job opportunities for traditional candidates,” South Carolina’s women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley noted in a 2021 interview, demonstrating the foresight of a coach familiar with competition dynamics.
The backlash against diversity initiatives is evident. As the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion are challenged, it’s crucial to highlight the achievements of coaches of color thriving in this environment. Here’s a look at some noteworthy figures for this year’s men’s NCAA tournament.
Kelvin Sampson – Houston
Coach Kelvin Sampson has made a habit of achieving No. 1 seeds, leading Houston to a dominant season for the third consecutive year, securing a 1-seed in the NCAA tournament, specifically in the Midwest region. The Cougars (30-4) enter the tournament riding a 13-game winning streak, preparing to face formidable opponents like Gonzaga, Clemson, and Tennessee on their path to Sampson’s third Final Four.
“Never take it for granted. It’s hard to make the NCAA tournament,” Sampson reflected after the bracket announcement. “I hope our fanbase appreciates the hard work behind our success and never assumes it’s a given, as we understand the challenges.”
Dennis Gates – Missouri
After a challenging 2023-24 season where Missouri finished with a dismal 8-24 record, Coach Dennis Gates has orchestrated a significant turnaround, leading the team to a 22-11 record this season, including a solid 10-8 in an exceptionally competitive SEC. Gates, who previously worked under the recently retired Leonard Hamilton at Florida State, has led Missouri to the NCAA tournament for the second consecutive time this year.
As a 6-seed in the West region, Missouri is poised for a tough first-round battle against Drake but possesses the offensive firepower to potentially make a deep run. “I remind our guys every year before the season where the Final Four is held,” Gates stated after a recent SEC tournament setback.
Shaka Smart – Marquette
Shaka Smart is embarking on his 12th NCAA tournament appearance and fourth consecutive year with Marquette. He’s aiming for a second straight Sweet 16 as a 7-seed in the South bracket. However, the journey ahead looks challenging with a first-round matchup against New Mexico, likely followed by a potential clash with 2-seed Michigan State.
Marquette finished fourth in the Big East regular season, yet faced a disappointing exit in the tournament semifinals. “The focus is on coming together as a team to address our shortcomings and prepare for the next challenge,” Smart emphasized after their semifinal loss.
Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway – Memphis
Penny Hardaway, in his seventh season at the helm of Memphis following a successful 14-year NBA career, is bringing his best team yet into the NCAA tournament with a 29-5 record. Memphis has secured wins against notable tournament contenders but may face challenges if senior point guard Tyrese Hunter, who is nursing a foot injury, is unable to play.
As a 5-seed in the West region, Hardaway’s squad will encounter a strong Colorado State in the first round, with the possibility of facing Big Ten powerhouse Maryland in the second round. Reflecting on his journey, Hardaway expressed gratitude for his growth as both a coach and an individual compared to last year’s struggles.
