Top 10 names that new Oklahoma Sooners athletics director Roger Denny has to consider to be the new men's basketball head coach, replacing Porter Moser
The University of Oklahoma has officially welcomed Roger Denny as its new Athletic Director, a move that signals a fresh chapter for Sooner athletics. Denny, set to assume his role on February 15th, brings a wealth of experience and a no-nonsense approach to rebuilding programs. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for OU, particularly in men's basketball, where stagnation has prompted urgent action.
Denny's inaugural priority? Parting ways with head coach Porter Moser and spearheading a comprehensive rebuild to restore the program's competitive edge.
Moser, who joined OU in 2021 after a successful stint at Loyola Chicago, has faced mounting criticism amid inconsistent results. Despite an NCAA Tournament appearance last season, the Sooners have struggled to maintain momentum in the SEC this year. Coming off of seven-straight losses and no deep postseason runs, the program has lost some of its luster since the Kelvin Sampson and Lon Kruger eras.
Denny, known for his strategic vision from previous roles, sees this as an opportunity to inject new life into the team. "We're committed to excellence," Denny stated in his introductory press conference, emphasizing the need for a coach who can recruit top talent, develop players, and compete for championships in the evolving landscape of college basketball.
To that end, Denny would be best to cast a wide net for Moser's successor. Here's a curated list of 10 intriguing candidates, divided into tiers based on feasibility and potential impact. These names range from long-shot dreams to solid, realistic fits, each bringing unique strengths to get the Sooners back on track.
Tier 1: Pipe Dream – The Unlikely but Transformative Hires
1. Billy Donovan, Chicago Bulls head coach: At 60, Donovan is a coaching legend with two national titles at Florida and a proven NBA track record, including his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder. The timing is tricky—he's currently with the Chicago Bulls, but rumors suggest he may not return next season. No blue-blood program is likely to pursue him at this stage, and his familiarity with Oklahoma life could make OU appealing. Imagine Donovan replicating his Florida magic at OU, where the program has yet to claim a national championship. Florida won back-to-back titles under Donovan after not winning one previously. The hire could be one that could elevate the Sooners instantly.
2. Brad Underwood, Illinois Fighting Illini head coach: Currently at Illinois, Underwood has Big Ten success under his belt, including multiple NCAA appearances. His prior stint at Oklahoma State gives him in-state knowledge, and he's crossed paths with Denny professionally for the last few years. If Underwood stalls short of a Final Four, a scenery change to OU could reignite his career. His up-tempo style would thrive in the SEC, though luring him away remains a long shot.
3. Kellen Sampson, Houston Cougars assistant coach: As an assistant at Houston under his father Kelvin, Kellen is heir apparent to a powerhouse program. But when will Kelvin retire? How long will Kellen have to wait to takeover? A homecoming to OU—where his dad once coached—could be tempting, blending family legacy with program revival. Kellen played for the Sooners from 2004-2007. Still, Houston's superior resources and recent success, make this improbable.
Tier 2: Home Run – Game-Changing Selections
4. Bryce Drew, Grand Canyon head coach: Drew has danced in March at every stop, from Valparaiso (famous for his buzzer-beater as a player) to Vanderbilt and now Grand Canyon. Hailing from a basketball royalty family—his brother Scott coaches at Baylor—Drew understands the OU landscape. His ability to build winners from modest foundations could be a home run for Denny.
5. Hollis Price, Houston Cougars assistant coach: An OU legend from the 2002 Final Four team, Price has absorbed elite coaching under Kelvin Sampson at Houston. Hiring him would unify the fanbase, injecting passion and "Sooner Magic" back into Norman. His player connections and recruiting prowess could spark immediate excitement.
6. Eric Maynor, Oklahoma City Thunder assistant coach: A Thunder fan favorite known for clutch play, Maynor has excelled in player development with Oklahoma City’s young stars. His NBA insights could modernize OU's approach, appealing to recruits eyeing pro careers. This hire would energize fans with local ties and a fresh perspective.
7. Josh Schertz, Saint Louis Billikens head coach: From Division II dominance to turning Saint Louis into an A-10 contender, Schertz is a rising star. His innovative offense and quick turnarounds make him a potential steal, especially if he's ready for a Power Five leap.
Tier 3: Realistic Options – Practical and Proven Choices
8. Eric Olen, New Mexico Lobos head coach: Olen rebuilt UC San Diego from Division II to a competitive D1 program, and he's now thriving at New Mexico. His track record of program elevation with limited resources aligns perfectly with OU's rebuild needs, offering stability and growth.
9. Eric Konkol, Tulsa Golden Hurricane head coach: Leading Tulsa with scant support, Konkol has regional familiarity from Louisiana Tech. His defensive schemes and recruiting in the Southwest could provide a seamless transition, making him a low-risk, high-reward option.
10. Tony Skinn, George Mason Patriots head coach: As a player on George Mason's iconic 2006 Final Four squad, Skinn knows underdog success. He's progressively improved the Patriots, showcasing adaptability that could translate well to OU's challenges.
The right hire for Denny could propel the Sooners toward sustained success. As Denny settles in, all eyes are on who will lead the charge on the court. The decision could define his tenure and reshape Oklahoma basketball for years to come.