Penn State University has officially named Mike Rhoades as its new head men’s basketball coach, with a seven-year deal worth over $3 million per year.
Rhoades Leaves VCU for Opportunity at Penn State
Rhoades, who previously led Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) for six seasons, achieved a 129-61 record with the Rams and three NCAA Tournament appearances. Despite having consistent success at VCU, Rhoades is leaving a high-end basketball job to take on the lower-end position at Penn State.
Rhoades Called Meeting to Inform VCU Team of Decision
Before taking on his new role at Penn State, Rhoades called a meeting to inform his VCU team of his decision. The news has shaken the VCU program as they now look to replace Rhoades.
Utah State’s Ryan Odom Top Candidate for VCU Coach
Utah State’s Ryan Odom is expected to be the top candidate for the vacancy left by Rhoades at VCU. Odom has worked as an assistant coach at Virginia Tech and American and was the head coach at UMBC when they achieved the first No. 16 over No. 1 upset in men’s NCAA tournament history by defeating top-seeded Virginia in March 2018.
Penn State Program Set to Change Dramatically
Rhoades’ arrival comes as the Penn State basketball program undergoes several changes. Six players graduated, including top scorer Jalen Pickett, and two players entered the transfer portal. While the incoming freshman class has disintegrated, Evan Mahaffey is expected to return.
Penn State Struggled with NIL Fundraising During NCAA Tournament
Penn State’s handling of name, image, and likeness (NIL) efforts under Rhoades will be a development to monitor. The program struggled with NIL fundraising during the NCAA Tournament, which could have had an impact on their performance.
Rhoades Brings Impressive Record and Success to Penn State
Despite the challenges faced by the program, Rhoades brings an impressive record and success to Penn State. He won the Atlantic 10 twice and the A10 Tournament this past season at VCU.
Pat Kraft Targeted Rhoades for Head Coaching Vacancy
Penn State athletic director Pat Kraft targeted Rhoades to fill the head coaching vacancy. Pending approval by the Penn State Board of Trustees compensation committee, Rhoades has agreed in principle to take the job offer.
Adam Fisher Critical Part of Penn State Program
Penn State associate head coach Adam Fisher is a critical part of the program and may be part of Rhoades’ staff. Fisher has been with the team for over a decade and has played an instrumental role in their success.
Shrewsberry Leaves for Notre Dame
Rhoades replaces Micah Shrewsberry who left for Notre Dame after going 37-31 over two seasons at Penn State. With Rhoades taking over, Penn State hopes to turn a new chapter in its men’s basketball program.
Overall, the hiring of Mike Rhoades as Penn State’s new head men’s basketball coach brings excitement for the Penn State program as they look to improve their record and make strides in name, image, and likeness efforts. While VCU looks to replace Rhoades with a top candidate like Ryan Odom, Penn State looks forward to seeing how Rhoades can bring his impressive record and success to elevate their program.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
