The Cincinnati Bearcats have made a bold move by hiring Jerrod Calhoun as their new head coach, marking a significant shift in the program's trajectory. Calhoun, a former Bearcat himself, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the role. With a reported NIL budget of $10 million for the 2026-27 season, the Bearcats are aiming to make an immediate impact and return to the NCAA Tournament.
Calhoun's journey to the top has been an impressive one. After graduating from UC in 2004, he worked under the legendary Bob Huggins at both Cincinnati and West Virginia before establishing himself as a head coach at Youngstown State. During his seven seasons at Youngstown, Calhoun led the team to a 118-106 record and claimed the first-ever regular season conference championship in the program's history in 2022-23. His success continued at Utah State, where he held a 55-15 record in two seasons, guiding the Aggies to the Mountain West regular-season championship and conference tournament this season, despite a challenging schedule.
What makes Calhoun's hiring particularly intriguing is his ability to connect with players and fans alike. His passion and fire are evident in his comments about the team's seed placement in the NCAA Tournament. Calhoun expressed dissatisfaction with the 8/9 seed, highlighting his commitment to improving the team's performance and reputation. This sentiment resonates with the Bearcats' fan base, who are eager to see their team succeed.
One of Calhoun's notable strengths is his late-game coaching prowess. Utah State went 8-1 in close games this season and 9-3 in close games last season, a stark contrast to Wes Miller's struggles in that department during his tenure at UC. This late-game coaching upgrade is a significant factor in the Bearcats' potential to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament and beyond.
Calhoun's return to Cincinnati is a homecoming of sorts, as he graduated from the university in 2004 and has deep roots in the program. His familiarity with the Bearcats' culture and history will undoubtedly be an asset as he aims to rebuild and elevate the team's performance. With a talented NIL budget and a coach who understands the program's needs, the Bearcats are poised for a bright future.
In my opinion, Calhoun's hiring is a strategic move that showcases the Bearcats' commitment to excellence. His leadership, combined with the support of a substantial NIL budget, positions the program for success in the Big 12. As Calhoun takes the reins, the Bearcats are set to embark on a journey that promises excitement, improvement, and a renewed sense of pride for the entire university community.
