BREAKING NEWS: Tom Crean Returns as Head Coach of Indiana Hoosiers Men’s Basketball Team
Bloomington, IN – April 10, 2025
In a stunning and emotional twist for Hoosier Nation, Tom Crean has officially been reappointed as the head coach of the Indiana University men’s basketball team. The university announced the decision this morning, confirming the return of the coach who once revitalized the program and now hopes to lead it back to national prominence once again.
Crean, 58, previously held the head coaching position in Bloomington from 2008 to 2017. His first tenure was marked by a dramatic rebuilding effort following NCAA sanctions and scholarship reductions, eventually guiding the Hoosiers to multiple Sweet Sixteen appearances and a pair of Big Ten titles. His teams, led by stars like Victor Oladipo and Cody Zeller, brought energy and excitement back to Assembly Hall.
“I’m humbled and incredibly honored to return to a place that means so much to me and my family,” Crean said during a press conference on campus Thursday morning. “Indiana is home. The opportunity to lead this program again is one I take with the highest responsibility, pride, and passion.”
The decision to bring Crean back comes just weeks after the university parted ways with head coach Mike Woodson following a disappointing season that ended without an NCAA Tournament berth. Athletic Director Scott Dolson said the decision was made after an extensive search and deep conversations with alumni, boosters, and fans.
“Tom Crean understands what it means to be a Hoosier,” Dolson said. “His passion for the game, for teaching, and for this university is undeniable. We believe he is the right person to reestablish a winning culture in Bloomington.”
Crean spent the last few years as a broadcaster and analyst for ESPN after a stint at the University of Georgia, where he coached from 2018 to 2022. His return to the sideline marks a full-circle moment for a coach known for his relentless work ethic, high-energy practices, and devotion to player development.
Reactions from fans and former players poured in across social media, with many expressing excitement and support for Crean’s return.
“Coach Crean changed my life and helped make me the player I am today,” tweeted Victor Oladipo. “IU is lucky to have him back.”
Crean inherits a talented, though inconsistent, roster that includes All-Big Ten forward Mackenzie Mgbako and rising sophomore guard Gabe Cupps. Early reports suggest that Crean has already begun meeting with returning players and is actively recruiting in the transfer portal.
With his fiery coaching style and deep ties to the Hoosier community, Crean’s return feels less like a rehire and more like a homecoming. Whether he can lead the Hoosiers back to national title contention remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Assembly Hall is buzzing again.
The Indiana Hoosiers will hold an open practice this weekend to give fans a first look at the new (and familiar) era under Tom Crean. Expect a full house, renewed hope, and plenty of candy-striped enthusiasm.