FWTCT's Short-List: Bryce Drew

by robnoladog on Mar 28, 2025 1:25 PM EDT in MSU Bulldogs Basketball

Valparaiso Head Coach. Career Record: 22-12 (First Season)

Just when I thought the coaching search was starting to die down, ESPN reports this:

Mississippi State has interviewed Bryce Drew, sources told ESPN.com: espn.go.com/mens-college-b…
— Jason King (@JasonKingESPN) March 28, 2025

Bryce Drew has the pedigree, that's for sure. His dad, Homer, took Valparaiso to the NCAA Tournament seven times, and his brother, Scott, has taken Baylor, a program that was an absolute wreck when he arrived in 2003, to two NCAA Elite Eight appearances in the last three seasons.

I think it's pretty safe to say: this family can coach.

Drew joined the staff at Valparaiso in 2005 and was promoted to associate head coach in 2006, until Homer Drew handed over the keys to the car (retired) in 2011. Bryce elevated the play of the Crusaders in 2011-12, leading Valpo to a Horizon League title (first since 2003) and a spot in the NIT.

Bryce Drew seems to fit the mold that Scott Stricklin is looking for in a head coach. Young, energetic, with a strong basketball mind.

Oh, and he's already proven he can beat Ole Miss...

Tweet Comment 1 comment | Add comment | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Read More: Valparaiso Crusaders, Mississippi St. Bulldogs

Comments

Drew pulls name from consideration.

I don’t know if he was offered the job or not, but this is at least two coaches that Mississippi State has talked to that has either not been offered the job or has pulled their name out of consideration.

This has me concerned about what may be coming down the road. I have no way of knowing for sure, but I have to wonder if Renardo Sidney is going to be coming into play after he’s gone.

One thing is obvious to me though. I think moving on from Rick Stansbury is probably 2-3 years too late. Right now, our basketball program has little overall talent and depth, and we may have trouble holding this recruiting class together.