Indiana’s basketball program is in search of a new coach, marking the sixth change since the departure of Bob Knight in 2000. The departure of each coach, including Knight, has left the program in a state of flux for the last 25 years, raising questions about the team’s status as a college basketball powerhouse. Kelvin Sampson’s tenure at Indiana, which ended in 2008 after less than two years due to repeated rule violations, has had a lasting impact on both him and the Hoosiers. Since his departure, Indiana has posted a modest 311-248 record with two Big Ten titles, missing more NCAA Tournaments than they have made. In contrast, Sampson’s coaching career has flourished, most recently leading Houston to a series of impressive victories and establishing himself as one of the best college coaches of the past three decades.
Kelvin Sampson’s tenure at Indiana ended abruptly in 2008, just 43-15 into his coaching career with the team. Despite the rocky departure, Sampson’s career took a significant turn, leading him to Houston where he achieved remarkable success. His coaching record at Houston speaks for itself, with an impressive 286-83 record, numerous Sweet 16 appearances, and a Final Four run in 2021. Sampson’s journey since leaving Indiana has been marked by growth, learning, and reinvention, ultimately paving the way for his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Sampson’s transformation as a coach began with an opportunity to work alongside Gregg Popovich and Mike Montgomery on the United States national team in 2002. This experience laid the foundation for Sampson’s evolution as a coach, providing him with valuable insights and expertise that would shape his coaching philosophy for years to come. His subsequent coaching stints at Oklahoma, Indiana, and Houston, as well as his interactions with NBA luminaries like Scott Skiles, Mike Budenholzer, and Daryl Morey, further honed his coaching acumen and prepared him for the challenges ahead.
Despite the setbacks and challenges Sampson faced early in his career, including his acrimonious departure from Indiana, he persevered and continued to pursue his passion for coaching. His unwavering determination and commitment to excellence propelled him to success, culminating in his current status as a highly respected and accomplished college coach. Sampson’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of resilience, dedication, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams.
