Jerrod Calhoun has been hired as the head coach of the Cincinnati Bearcats on March 23, 2026, signing a six-year deal to lead the program.
Calhoun, 44, previously coached the Utah State Aggies, where he achieved a remarkable record of 55 wins and 15 losses, guiding the team to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.
His overall coaching record stands at 297 wins and 159 losses, showcasing his success in the sport. Calhoun’s tenure at Utah State included a strong offensive performance, with the Aggies ranking in the top-30 for offensive efficiency over the past two seasons.
Calhoun’s hiring comes after the Cincinnati Bearcats parted ways with Wes Miller, who spent five seasons with the team without securing an NCAA Tournament appearance. The Bearcats have not qualified for the NCAA Tournament since 2019, making this new appointment crucial for the program’s future.
As a University of Cincinnati alumnus, Calhoun has deep ties to the program, having served as a student assistant under former coach Bob Huggins. His return to Cincinnati marks a significant moment, as he becomes the first Cincinnati alum to coach the Bearcats since Tony Yates in 1989.
Cincinnati has committed approximately $20 million to its roster over the past two seasons, indicating a strong investment in the program’s success. Calhoun’s buyout is reportedly over $4 million, equating to 70 percent of his remaining salary.
Initial reactions to Calhoun’s hiring have been positive, with many noting that “Cincinnati is bringing Jerrod Calhoun home.” He quickly emerged as the program’s top target, reflecting the confidence in his abilities to revitalize the Bearcats.
The primary benchmark for Calhoun at Cincinnati is clear: to return the team to March Madness. His reputation as one of the premier offensive minds in men’s basketball adds to the expectations surrounding his leadership.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific plans Calhoun has for the team moving forward, but his track record suggests a promising future for the Bearcats under his guidance.
