DePaul Fires Men’s Basketball Coach Tony Stubblefield Amid Struggling Season
DePaul University has announced the firing of men’s basketball coach Tony Stubblefield following a disappointing 3-15 season. Stubblefield, who held the position for two-plus seasons, had a record of 28-54 during his tenure in Chicago. The Blue Demons currently sit at the bottom of the Big East with a winless 0-7 conference record. This coaching change marks the first in a power conference for the 2023-24 men’s basketball season.
DeWayne Peevy, DePaul’s vice president and athletic director, stated, “After evaluating the current state of our men’s basketball program, a decision was made to make a change in the head coaching position. We want to thank Coach Stubblefield for his hard work and determination over the last two-plus seasons to move our basketball program forward through a new era for DePaul Athletics. Unfortunately, we did not meet our goals.”
In the interim, Matt Brady, special assistant to the head coach, has been appointed as the interim head coach. Brady brings valuable experience from his time under Maryland coach Mark Turgeon and his successful stints as head coach at Marist and James Madison.
Why Make a Coaching Change Now?
Making a coaching change mid-season can be a challenging decision due to concerns about disrupting the team’s dynamics. However, when the results indicate a miserable experience for everyone involved, it becomes necessary. This is precisely the situation DePaul basketball finds itself in as of January 2024.
As of Monday, the Blue Demons rank 279th on KenPom.com, making them the worst-performing power conference team. The team’s performance across all aspects of the game has been abysmal, leaving little enjoyment for both players and spectators. By removing all doubt about Stubblefield’s future, this coaching change at least alleviates some pressure.
Finding the Right Candidate for the Job
Despite the team’s lackluster performance, the DePaul coaching position remains an attractive opportunity in the Big East. The university boasts a new arena, ongoing upgrades to athletic department headquarters, and plans for a state-of-the-art practice facility. Additionally, the allure of Chicago as a recruiting destination should not be underestimated. The main challenge lies in finding a coach who can turn the program around and meet the high demands of the conference.
DeWayne Peevy must prioritize finding a skilled and capable coach who can bring success to DePaul. The next coach will face a daunting task but should encounter no resistance in implementing their plan. Ultimately, the success of the program hinges on securing a talented and experienced coach who can elevate DePaul’s basketball program to new heights.
In conclusion, DePaul University has made the decision to part ways with men’s basketball coach Tony Stubblefield following a disappointing season. The search for a new coach begins, with the university aiming to find a candidate who can bring success and restore the program’s reputation. The future of DePaul basketball hangs in the balance as they embark on this crucial coaching search.