Creighton's Greg McDermott to retire after Crown tournament; Alan Huss to become head coach
Key Takeaways
- Greg McDermott retires as Creighton men's basketball coach after Crown tournament.
- Alan Huss promoted to head coach succeeding McDermott.
- Huss named head coach in waiting and to assume duties under transition plan.
Retirement Announcement
Greg McDermott announced his retirement as Creighton men's basketball head coach following the team's final game in the College Basketball Crown tournament.
“Creighton coach Greg McDermott is retiring after this season, the school announced”
He concludes his 16-year tenure as the all-time winningest coach in program history.
The announcement marks the end of an era for the Bluejays who have benefited from McDermott's leadership.
His decision comes after establishing Creighton as a consistent contender in college basketball.
McDermott successfully guided the team through conference transitions and sustained success.
He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the program and thanked supporters throughout his career.
Successor Background
Alan Huss, designated as coach-in-waiting since April 2025, will succeed McDermott as new head coach.
Huss played for Creighton from 1997-2001, creating a strong connection to the program.
He returned as associate head coach, demonstrating his commitment to the university.
Huss coached High Point from 2023-2025, leading them to their first NCAA Tournament.
He won back-to-back Big South regular season titles and earned Coach of the Year honors both seasons.
His background and preparation make him a natural successor to McDermott's legacy.
Coaching Legacy
Greg McDermott leaves an impressive legacy at Creighton, transforming the program into a consistent winner.
“Greg McDermott will retire as Creighton men’s basketball coach after the team’s final game in the College Basketball Crown tournament,the university announced Monday”
He successfully navigated Creighton's transition from the Missouri Valley Conference to the Big East.
The Bluejays won the Big East regular season title in the 2019-20 season under his leadership.
Creighton posted .500 or better records in Big East play during 11 of 13 seasons in the league.
The program reached five consecutive NCAA tournaments, with a near-miss at a sixth in 2020.
McDermott coached his son Doug from 2010-11 to 2013-14, creating a memorable father-son dynamic.
Recent Challenges
The 2025-26 season presented challenges as Creighton finished 15-17, ending 10 consecutive 20-win seasons.
This marked a rare period of inconsistency during McDermott's tenure.
The program had previously shown resilience and ability to bounce back from challenges.
The timing allows for a smooth transition to Huss, who has been groomed for this role.
McDermott will coach through Creighton's appearance in The Crown postseason event.
This ensures he completes his final season with dignity while Huss prepares for 2026-27.
Transition Impact
The coaching transition represents a significant moment in Creighton basketball history.
“Creighton coach Greg McDermott is retiring after this season, the school announced”
Huss steps into a role with both immense responsibility and great potential.
Huss expressed deep appreciation for Creighton's influence on his life and career.
He stated the university 'helped shape who I am' and he doesn't take the opportunity lightly.
His connection to the program runs deep through his playing career.
Creighton fans can expect excellence with potentially new strategic approaches from Huss.
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