Stanford University has made a significant move by recruiting Kyle Smith as the new men’s basketball coach, according to a source within the program. Smith, who led Washington State to their first NCAA Tournament in 16 years, brings a solid track record and a wealth of experience to the Cardinal.
During his five-year tenure at Washington State, Smith achieved an impressive record of 94-71, never finishing with a record below .500. This marked a remarkable turnaround for the school, as they hadn’t finished with a winning record since the 2011-2012 season. Under Smith’s guidance, the team made great strides and reached new heights.
In this year’s NCAA Tournament, Washington State entered as a No. 7 seed. They managed to secure a victory in the first round against Drake before succumbing to No. 2 seed Iowa State in the second round. Despite the loss, their performance showcased the potential and talent of the team under Smith’s leadership.
Smith’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Stanford, as they look to bounce back from two consecutive 14-win seasons. The university recently parted ways with coach Jerod Haase after eight seasons, hoping for a fresh start and a resurgence of their basketball program. The Cardinal haven’t made an appearance in the NCAA Tournament since the 2013-2014 season, and they are eager to return to the national stage.
Interestingly, both Stanford and Washington State will be changing conferences in 2024. Stanford is set to join the highly competitive ACC, while Washington State will be competing in the West Coast Conference. These conference changes add an extra layer of significance to Smith’s move, as he will have to navigate different competition in the coming years.
It’s worth noting that Smith is not the first coach from Washington State to lead a team to the NCAA Tournament. Tony Bennett, who left the Cougars in 2009, went on to achieve great success at the University of Virginia. In 2019, Bennett guided the Cavaliers to an NCAA championship, showcasing the potential for coaches to excel beyond their current positions.
As Stanford welcomes Kyle Smith as their new men’s basketball coach, there is a sense of optimism and excitement surrounding the program. With his proven track record and ability to develop teams, Smith has the potential to elevate the Cardinal to new heights. Fans and players alike eagerly await the upcoming seasons, hoping for a return to the NCAA Tournament and a renewed sense of competitiveness.
In conclusion, Stanford’s recruitment of Kyle Smith as their new men’s basketball coach marks a significant move for the program. With his successful tenure at Washington State, Smith brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success. As both Stanford and Washington State prepare for conference changes in 2024, Smith’s appointment comes at a crucial time, offering hope for a resurgence of Stanford basketball. With high expectations and a talented roster, the Cardinal are poised for an exciting new chapter under Smith’s leadership.