College Basketball
Next Maryland Basketball Coach Odds: Steve Blake and Buzz Williams Among Potential Hires for Terps
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Get to know David Evans betterPublished30 Mar 2025
Kevin Willard has officially accepted the head coaching position at Villanova and Maryland basketball is suddenly in desperate need of a new leader. Several names are being floated as possible replacements, ranging from local coaching talents to established Power 5 coaches. Now that Willard has departed, the Terps will likely prioritize someone with deep ties to the DMV area and a proven track record. Here are the most likely candidates to replace Willard as the next Maryland basketball coach.
Next Maryland Basketball Coach Odds
| Candidate | Odds | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Duane Simpkins | +250 | 28.6% |
| Buzz Williams | +350 | 22.2% |
| Russell Turner | +450 | 18.2% |
| Steve Blake | +550 | 15.4% |
| Chris Collins | +700 | 12.5% |
| LeVelle Moton | +1000 | 9.1% |
*Odds are for entertainment purposes only.
Duane Simpkins Heading to Maryland to Replace Kevin Willard?
Current Role: Head Coach, American University
Odds: +250 | Probability: 28.6%
Simpkins, a former Maryland player, has quickly turned around American University’s program. He led the Eagles to a First Four appearance in this year’s March Madness, and has built strong relationships with local high school coaches. His familiarity with the Maryland program and proven success at the mid-major level put him firmly in the conversation.
Buzz Williams in the Hunt for Maryland Role
Current Role: Head Coach, Texas A&M
Odds: +350 | Probability: 22.2%
Williams, currently at Texas A&M, has a proven track record of success in multiple conferences. He previously coached at Marquette and Virginia Tech, where he consistently built competitive programs. His experience navigating the high-level demands of major college basketball makes him a strong candidate for Maryland. Williams has reportedly expressed interest in the role, adding intrigue to his potential move.
Could Maryland Look at Russell Turner?
Current Role: Head Coach, UC Irvine
Odds: +450 | Probability: 18.2%
Turner has established UC Irvine as a consistent force in the Big West, with multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. His teams are known for tough defense and disciplined play, traits that would translate well in the Big Ten. While Turner lacks the DMV ties of Skinn and Simpkins, his proven ability to build a program from the ground up makes him an intriguing candidate.
Steve Blake Tosses Hat Into the Ring for Maryland Job
Tough to see Coach Willard leave. He did a great job and I wish him the best! With that being said. I’m available and would love the challenge. Go Terps!!! https://t.co/WlJiUytPqG
— Steve Blake (@SteveBlake5) March 30, 2025
Current Role: None
Odds: +550 | Probability: 15.4%
Steve Blake, a Maryland legend and 2002 national champion, has thrown his name into the coaching race. Despite limited coaching experience at the college level, Blake has worked as an assistant in the NBA with the Trail Blazers and Suns. His deep ties to the program and passion for returning to Maryland could resonate with fans and recruits alike.
Chris Collins a Potential Willard Replacement?
Current Role: Head Coach, Northwestern
Odds: +700| Probability: 12.5%
Collins has turned Northwestern into a respectable Big Ten program, leading the Wildcats to multiple March Madness appearances. His familiarity with the conference and his ability to develop players could make him a viable candidate. However, Collins’ attachment to Northwestern and his success there may make him less likely to jump to Maryland.
LeVelle Moton: Proven Winner in the MEAC
Current Role: Head Coach, NC Central
Odds: +1000 | Probability: 9.1%
Moton’s long-standing success at North Carolina Central has earned him respect in the coaching community. He’s built a consistent winner and developed NBA-level talent in a lower-profile program. However, moving from the MEAC to the Big Ten is a significant jump, making him a dark horse in this race.
Commentary
Nick Raffoul, Head of News at SportsCasting, weighed in on the potential coaching change:
“With Kevin Willard heading to Villanova, Maryland finds itself at a critical juncture. The program needs a coach who can connect with the DMV recruiting base while also competing in a tough Big Ten environment.
Buzz Williams has the resume and experience to step into that role seamlessly, while Duane Simpkins brings familiarity and ties to the region that Maryland fans would appreciate. Steve Blake’s passion for the program is undeniable, but the lack of head coaching experience could be a hurdle. This hire will set the tone for Maryland’s trajectory over the next several seasons, so they’ll need to get it right.”
