Drew Adams, a Bloomington native and seasoned college basketball coach, has been named the NCAA’s Best Assistant Head Coach for the 2024–25 season. This prestigious recognition highlights his exceptional contributions to the Indiana Hoosiers men’s basketball program.([iuhoosiers.com][1])
Adams’ journey in basketball began at Bloomington High School South, where he was a standout player and team captain. He continued his playing career at Iowa under coach Steve Alford, a former Indiana Hoosiers legend. After earning a degree in sports management from the University of Tennessee, Adams transitioned into coaching. He started as a student assistant at Tennessee, contributing to the team’s success during a period of national prominence. His coaching career further flourished at Indiana University, where he served as Coordinator of Basketball Systems and later as Director of Operations under head coach Tom Crean. ([insidethehall.com][2], [en.wikipedia.org][3], [bradleybraves.com][4])
Adams’ coaching acumen was further honed during his tenure at the University of New Mexico, where he helped the Lobos achieve a 99–36 record, including multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Subsequently, at Bradley University, he played a pivotal role in transforming the program, leading to consecutive Missouri Valley Conference championships and NCAA Tournament berths. ([bradleybraves.com][4])
In March 2025, Adams returned to Indiana as an assistant coach under head coach Darian DeVries. His deep recruiting ties to the state and extensive coaching experience have been instrumental in the Hoosiers’ success. Adams’ recognition as the NCAA’s Best Assistant Head Coach underscores his significant impact on the program and the broader college basketball community.([iuhoosiers.com][5])
This accolade not only honors Adams’ individual achievements but also reflects the collective progress of the Indiana Hoosiers men’s basketball team under his guidance. As the team looks ahead, Adams’ leadership and expertise will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in their pursuit of excellence.
[1]: https://iuhoosiers.com/news/2010/4/22/Drew_Adams_Named_Director_of_Operations_Video_Coordinator_For_IU_Men_s_Basketball_Program?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Vite App”
[2]: https://www.insidethehall.com/2010/04/22/bloomington-native-drew-adams-promoted-to-director-of-operations-video-coordinator/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Bloomington native Drew Adams promoted to Director of Operations/Video Coordinator – Inside the Hall | Indiana Hoosiers Basketball News, Recruiting and Analysis”
[3]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025%E2%80%9326_Indiana_Hoosiers_men%27s_basketball_team?utm_source=chatgpt.com “2025–26 Indiana Hoosiers men’s basketball team”
[4]: https://bradleybraves.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/drew-adams/1028?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Drew Adams – Men’s Basketball Coach – Bradley University Athletics”
[5]: https://iuhoosiers.com/news/2025/5/28/mens-basketball-assistant-coach-drew-adams-joins-iu-basketball-staff?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Assistant Coach Drew Adams Joins IU …”
