Twelve rising coaching stars emerge in college basketball ahead of March
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 2, 2026, 10:15 AM
Last updated Nov 2, 2026

As college basketball approaches its critical March period, a list of 12 rising coaching stars is being highlighted. Coaches such as Josh Schertz at Saint Louis, who has achieved significant success, and Eric Olen at New Mexico, noted for his notable first season, are among those recognized. Other candidates include Phil Martelli Jr. at VCU and Bryce Drew at Grand Canyon, both of whom have been building strong programs. This list, curated ahead of the NCAA Tournament, focuses on coaches outside the major conferences. Their continued success could make them highly sought after in the coaching market.
- •Josh Schertz leads Saint Louis with a program-record 29 wins.
- •Eric Olen guided New Mexico to a 26-11 record and NIT semifinals.
- •Phil Martelli Jr. achieved 28 wins and an NCAA Tournament Round of 32 appearance at VCU.
- •Bryce Drew has built Grand Canyon into a consistent winner with a 140-52 record.
- •The list focuses on coaches outside the five major conferences.
- 10:15 AMYahoo Sports — College basketball’s next coaching stars: 12 names to know before March
"Who’s the next breakout college basketball coach? These 12 rising stars could become the hottest names in the sport by March.
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