Mike Woodson has long history with basketball, but most recognize him for his time in the pros.
He was an NBA player for 10 years with teams like the Knicks, Kings and Rockets. After his playing days ended, he became a coach in the league for the next 25 years; 8 of those as a head coach (2004-10 with the Hawks and 2012-14 with the Knicks). But most don’t know his career as a college player. Crazy as it sounds, he’s more recognized for his goatee than he is for his time as an Indiana Hoosier.
But now that he’s the new head coach of the men’s basketball team at his alma mater, his amazing college career has resurfaced.
On Sunday, the university announced that Woodson would return to the Hoosiers through a six-year deal, according to ESPN.com. It’s a homecoming for the 63-year-old Woodson, who starred for Bobby Knight’s program from 1976 – 1980.
“I have spoken with numerous individuals at the college and NBA levels, and they were unanimous in their support of and respect for Mike,” said Indiana athletic director Scott Dolson on Sunday. “From his ability in terms of X’s and O’s to his skill at building relationships and developing players, his reputation is outstanding. As a coach, he’s succeeded at the highest levels of the NBA, and he’s mentored some of the game’s all-time great players.”
Woodson was a standout for the Hoosiers. He’s the program’s fifth all-time leading scorer (2,061 points), was the 1980 Big Ten Player of the Year, and NABC All-American as a senior. That year he led the Hoosiers to a conference title and a Sweet Sixteen appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
“This is a great day and a great fit for Indiana Basketball,” said Dolson. “Throughout this process, I was looking for someone I could partner with to return Indiana Basketball to a level of success that Hoosier fans have come to know and expect, and Mike is that person.”
There were stories that Indiana was pursuing the Celtics’ Brad Stevens and Ohio State’s Christ Holtmann, but in the end they chose one of their own. A man who stood out for the Hoosiers and who brings over two decades of coaching experience with him.
Now let’s see if he can recreate the magic he once wielded for the Hoosiers.
