On this final day of April, let’s reflect on the past season. Every spring, we at CBS Sports take the time to look back on which coaching hires made an immediate impact. We don’t grade them in this post, as it’s too soon to judge a coach’s success right after they’ve been hired. Instead, we wait four years before evaluating their performance. This year’s evaluation will be published later this week. We are recognizing first-year coaches who excelled right away.

Last year, there were 12 high-major coaching hires, with only two coaches having notably successful seasons. We also included two more power-conference coaches who did well overall. At the mid-major level, a dozen coaches receive praise for their outstanding debut seasons. A successful first year doesn’t guarantee success in the following years, but it certainly helps with recruiting through the transfer portal.

In 2023, over 60 coaching hires were made, and 16 coaches were recognized for their immediate success at their new schools. Grant McCasland quickly rebuilt Texas Tech and brought pride back to the program. Despite close calls, two first-year high-major coaches who didn’t make the NCAA Tournament still had solid seasons and ratings.

Recognition is not limited to NCAA Tournament appearances. Small-school coaches who excelled in their first year were also acknowledged. Four of them made the NCAA Tournament in their debut seasons, and two of those coaches have already moved on to new opportunities. In 2023, nearly 50 mid-major coaching changes occurred, with eleven first-year hires making a significant impact.