BREAKING NEWS: Tom Crean Returns as Head Coach of Indiana Hoosiers Men’s Basketball
Bloomington, IN — April 28, 2025
In a dramatic and widely anticipated move, Indiana University has officially re-signed former head coach Tom Crean to lead the Hoosiers men’s basketball program. The announcement was made Monday morning by Athletic Director Scott Dolson, sparking widespread reaction from fans, alumni, and college basketball insiders across the country.
Crean, who previously coached the Hoosiers from 2008 to 2017, returns to Bloomington with the goal of reviving a storied program that has struggled with inconsistency in recent years. During his initial tenure, Crean was credited with rebuilding the team in the aftermath of NCAA sanctions, developing stars like Victor Oladipo, Cody Zeller, and Yogi Ferrell, and capturing two Big Ten regular-season titles. His return marks a full-circle moment for the coach, who has spent recent years working as an analyst and mentoring young players off the court.
“I’m honored and thrilled to be returning to Indiana University,” Crean said in a statement. “This program means so much to me, and I’m committed to bringing back the energy, passion, and excellence that Hoosier fans deserve.”
The move comes after a turbulent 2024-25 season under Mike Woodson, during which the Hoosiers failed to make the NCAA Tournament and finished ninth in the Big Ten standings. Mounting criticism over player development, recruiting struggles, and late-game decision-making led the university to part ways with Woodson earlier this month.
Crean’s reappointment signals a clear shift in direction for Indiana basketball. Known for his high-energy coaching style, emphasis on player development, and up-tempo offensive schemes, Crean is expected to immediately reshape the program’s identity. He inherits a roster filled with young, promising talent and a top-15 recruiting class that had previously expressed uncertainty about the program’s future.
Fan reaction has been largely positive. Social media erupted with enthusiasm following the news, with many longtime supporters praising the decision as a necessary return to the fundamentals that once brought IU national attention. “Crean built us back from the ashes once, and I believe he can do it again,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Welcome home, Coach!”
However, some have voiced concerns over the decision, citing Crean’s struggles in postseason play and inconsistency during his final years in Bloomington. Despite this, university officials maintain confidence in their choice, noting Crean’s strong recruiting network, deep ties to the state of Indiana, and a renewed sense of purpose.
“This is about more than just basketball,” Athletic Director Scott Dolson said during a press conference. “It’s about restoring a culture, reconnecting with the fan base, and setting a championship standard. Coach Crean is the right person for that mission.”
Crean will begin assembling his coaching staff immediately and is expected to meet with current players and incoming recruits this week. The Hoosiers will open the 2025-26 season with a high-profile matchup against the Kentucky Wildcats at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, in what is already being dubbed the “Return of the General” game.
See more updates and exclusive coverage from Real Hoosier Nation as the story develops.