University of the Pacific in California appoints Dave Smart, a highly successful Canadian college basketball coach, as the new head coach of the men's basketball program. Smart, with an impressive coaching record, notably led Carleton University to 656 victories over 18 seasons. He joins Pacific after a stint as an Assistant Coach at Texas Tech, contributing to their NCAA Tournament advancement. Smart's appointment reflects a push towards a new era for the Tigers' basketball program.

The Big Picture

This hiring showcases the increasing influence and success of Canadian basketball coaches in the NCAA, with Smart bringing a wealth of experience and a track record of developing talent from a country with a rising prominence in the sport.

By the Numbers
  • Smart accumulated 656 victories in 18 seasons at Carleton University.
  • Canada had 135 players in Division I rosters this season, and 21 competed in the NCAA Tournament.
State of Play
  • Smart's tenure at Carleton was marked by 591-48 record against U SPORTS competition.
  • He led Carleton to 13 U Sports Men's Basketball National Championships and 11 OUA Conference Championships.
  • Smart helped Texas Tech achieve a significant improvement in their performance, reaching the NCAA Tournament under his coaching.
What's Next

Smart's appointment signals a potential shift in Pacific's basketball program's trajectory, hinting at enhanced recruiting opportunities and an injection of new energy and expertise into the team.

Bottom Line

By choosing Dave Smart as the head coach, Pacific aims to elevate its basketball program with a proven leader known for his successful coaching tenure, setting the stage for a promising future in collegiate basketball.