**Mark Few and the Top 10 Active Men’s Basketball Coaches in the NCAA by Wins**
Mark Few, the head coach of Gonzaga University’s men’s basketball team, is one of the most successful and respected coaches in NCAA history. As of the 2023-2024 season, Few ranks among the top 10 active NCAA men’s basketball coaches in terms of career victories. His success at Gonzaga has not only elevated the program to national prominence but also solidified his place among the coaching elite in college basketball.
**1. Mike Krzyzewski (Duke, Retired)**
While technically retired, it’s impossible to discuss winningest coaches without mentioning Mike Krzyzewski, or “Coach K,” who retired after the 2021-2022 season with over 1,200 career wins, the most in NCAA history. His impact on the game and his mentorship of countless players have left an indelible mark on college basketball.
**2. Jim Boeheim (Syracuse)**
Jim Boeheim, the longtime head coach of Syracuse University, has accumulated over 1,000 wins during his career. Known for his 2-3 zone defense and ability to develop players, Boeheim has led Syracuse to numerous NCAA Tournament appearances, including a national championship in 2003.
**3. Bob Huggins (West Virginia)**
Bob Huggins, currently at West Virginia University, has a career win total that places him among the top five active coaches. Huggins is known for his defensive-minded teams and has taken two different schools, Cincinnati and West Virginia, to the Final Four. His fiery coaching style and dedication to the game have earned him respect across the sport.
**4. John Calipari (Kentucky)**
John Calipari, the head coach of the University of Kentucky, is another coaching giant. With over 700 career wins, Calipari has become synonymous with success at the highest level of college basketball. His ability to recruit top talent and prepare players for the NBA is unparalleled, and he has led Kentucky to multiple Final Four appearances and a national championship in 2012.
**5. Bill Self (Kansas)**
Bill Self, the head coach of the University of Kansas, is one of the most successful active coaches, boasting over 700 career wins. Self has led the Jayhawks to consistent success in the Big 12 and multiple deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, including national championships in 2008 and 2022. His teams are known for their tough defense and efficient offense.
**6. Tom Izzo (Michigan State)**
Tom Izzo, head coach at Michigan State University, is one of the most respected coaches in the game. With over 600 wins, Izzo has built a program known for its toughness and consistency. He has taken the Spartans to multiple Final Fours and won a national championship in 2000. Izzo’s emphasis on defense and rebounding has made Michigan State a perennial contender.
**7. Mark Few (Gonzaga)**
Mark Few’s career at Gonzaga is nothing short of remarkable. Since taking over the program in 1999, Few has amassed over 650 wins, making Gonzaga a national powerhouse. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs have made numerous deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, including two appearances in the national championship game (2017 and 2021). Few’s ability to maintain Gonzaga’s status as a top program despite being in a mid-major conference is a testament to his coaching acumen.
**8. Rick Pitino (Iona)**
Rick Pitino, currently coaching at Iona College, has had a storied career with over 800 wins across multiple programs, including Kentucky and Louisville, where he won national championships. Pitino is known for his up-tempo style and defensive pressure, which have made his teams tough to beat. His return to college basketball at Iona has been marked by continued success, as he has led the Gaels to NCAA Tournament appearances.
**9. Bruce Pearl (Auburn)**
Bruce Pearl, the head coach at Auburn University, has built a reputation as one of the most energetic and charismatic coaches in the game. With over 600 career wins, Pearl has turned Auburn into a national contender, leading them to the Final Four in 2019. His ability to recruit and develop talent has made Auburn a force in the SEC.
**10. Mick Cronin (UCLA)**
Mick Cronin, the head coach of UCLA, rounds out the list with over 400 career wins. Cronin has quickly revitalized the Bruins program, leading them to the Final Four in 2021. Known for his defensive-minded approach, Cronin has built teams that are tough, disciplined, and capable of competing at the highest level.
In conclusion, Mark Few’s place among the top active men’s basketball coaches in terms of victories is well-deserved. His success at Gonzaga, along with the accomplishments of his peers, highlights the extraordinary level of talent and dedication required to thrive in the competitive world of NCAA men’s basketball coaching. Few’s ability to consistently win and maintain a high standard of excellence has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history.