On The Horizon

Jim Squire

Way-Too-Early Impressions of Wright State Following Exhibition Win over Bellarmine--HoriZone Roundtable
Get a Glimpse Into the Future--HoriZone Roundtable
Five college basketball coaches whose remarkable journeys to Division I deserve more attention--Busting Brackets

3. Jerrod Calhoun, Cincinnati: A coaching journey that started and ended with the Bearcats
During his Cincinnati introductory press conference, Calhoun explained that accepting the Fairmont State job required taking a substantial pay cut. He wanted the opportunity to lead his own program, even if that meant sacrificing financial security.
The decision helped launch a successful head coaching career that eventually included stops at Youngstown State and Utah State.
When Cincinnati hired him in 2026, Calhoun returned to the same program where he had first learned the coaching profession. His career had taken him through multiple universities, different competitive levels and numerous professional challenges before bringing him back to the Bearcats.
For Cincinnati fans, the homecoming offers an opportunity to reconnect with a coach who understands the program's history and traditions.
5. Matt Majkrzak, Northern Illinois: Facing his former program in his first exhibition
Matt Majkrzak enters the 2026-27 season with an unusual opportunity to begin his Northern Illinois coaching career.
Before accepting the NIU position, Majkrzak spent seven seasons leading Northern Michigan at the Division II level. His success there helped him earn the opportunity to become a Division I head coach.
His first exhibition opponent at Northern Illinois is none other than Northern Michigan.
The Huskies host the Wildcats on October 17, creating a remarkable reunion for Majkrzak and several players who followed him to DeKalb. Northern Illinois confirmed that four members of its roster played at Northern Michigan during the previous season.
The circumstances make the exhibition particularly interesting. Majkrzak will be coaching against the program he helped develop while evaluating players who are familiar with his system and expectations.
The transition also represents an important opportunity for Northern Illinois. The Huskies are attempting to establish a new identity under their first-year head coach, and Majkrzak brings experience building a successful program at a smaller school.
His story might not include the national championships associated with some other coaches on this list, but the opportunity to move from Division II to Division I remains a significant professional achievement.
Different paths, similar opportunities
These five coaches demonstrate that there isn't one established route to becoming a successful Division I head coach.
Majkrzak represents another coach attempting to translate success at a smaller school into a new opportunity.
Their careers also offer an important reminder about college basketball. Some of the most interesting coaching stories develop far from the national television spotlight.
As the 2026-27 season approaches, these five coaches have opportunities to add new chapters to already fascinating careers.