In a highly anticipated announcement, the Indiana Hoosiers have officially named Calbert Cheaney as their new head coach for the 2025 season. The news has sent waves of excitement through the Hoosier faithful, as the former player-turned-coach returns to the program where he solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in Indiana’s storied basketball history.
Cheaney, who was a star for the Hoosiers in the early 1990s, was a key figure in Indiana’s success under head coach Bob Knight. The Indiana native’s illustrious playing career includes becoming the all-time leading scorer in Big Ten Conference history and winning the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year award in 1993. His time on the court left an indelible mark on the program and the state, making him a beloved figure in Hoosiers basketball lore.
After an impressive playing career that saw him be selected as the sixth overall pick in the 1993 NBA Draft by the Washington Bullets (now Wizards), Cheaney went on to enjoy a successful professional career in the NBA. Following his retirement, Cheaney transitioned into coaching, bringing a wealth of basketball knowledge and leadership experience to various assistant coaching roles. His return to Indiana marks the culmination of years of preparation and dedication to the game, as well as his unwavering desire to give back to the program that helped launch his career.
Indiana’s athletic director, Scott Dolson, expressed his enthusiasm about Cheaney’s appointment. “Calbert embodies everything that is great about Indiana basketball. His commitment to excellence, his deep understanding of the game, and his passion for the Hoosiers make him the perfect fit for this program,” Dolson said. “We are thrilled to have him lead our team and bring Indiana basketball back to its winning ways.”
Cheaney’s hiring has been met with an outpouring of support from fans, alumni, and former players. Social media has been buzzing with messages of congratulations, and fans are eager to see how Cheaney will lead the team in the upcoming season. His appointment is seen as a symbolic return to the program’s roots, bringing a sense of hope and excitement to a fanbase that has long been yearning for sustained success.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Calbert Cheaney as he looks to restore Indiana basketball to national prominence, making his return a defining moment in the program’s history.