Missouri State University has chosen Cuonzo Martin as the new men's basketball head coach, marking his return to the program after his successful tenure that included a Missouri Valley Conference regular-season championship. Martin boasts a noteworthy coaching record, with nine postseason appearances, including NCAA Tournament and NIT trips, and a CIT title with the Bears in 2010.

The Big Picture

Cuonzo Martin's reappointment reflects a strategic move by Missouri State University to bring back a coach with a proven track record of success and a strong connection to the community and program.

By the Numbers
  • 264-198 (.587) career record in 14 seasons as a Division I head coach
  • Four trips to the NCAA Tournament, four NIT appearances, and a CIT title with Missouri State in 2010
  • 56 college graduates during his coaching career
State of Play
  • Martin's contract is a five-year agreement through the 2028-29 season with a base salary of $600,000
  • He replaces Dana Ford, who held a 106-82 record in six seasons at Missouri State
Bottom Line

Martin's return to Missouri State as the head basketball coach brings experience, a history of success, and a strong connection to the program, positioning the Bears for continued growth and competitiveness in the collegiate basketball landscape.