2026 College Basketball Coaching Hires: Insights from Candid Coaches

The 2026 college basketball coaching cycle has seen significant changes, with a survey conducted by CBS Sports' Candid Coaches feature identifying Randy Bennett as the top high-major hire. Nearly 100 Division I coaches participated in the survey, providing insights into the offseason's coaching landscape.

Bennett, who previously coached at Saint Mary's, accepted a position with Arizona State after Gonzaga's move from the West Coast Conference diminished the Gaels' standing. Jerrod Calhoun, who transitioned from Utah State to Cincinnati, was a close second in the voting, separated by just two percent. Michael Malone from North Carolina and Bryan Hodgson from Providence followed in the rankings.

Notably, Michigan's Mike Boynton, who recently took over as head coach, is leading a team ranked ninth in the preseason Top 25 And 1. The Wolverines' season opener against Oakland on November 3 is highly anticipated, especially following their championship game appearance in 2026.