at 
In a shakeup within college and professional basketball coaching ranks, the landscape has witnessed some transitions. Mark Daigneault of the Oklahoma City Thunder has been crowned the 2023-2024 Kia NBA Coach of the Year, a testament to his exceptional leadership in propelling the Thunder to new heights. Simultaneously, the collegiate scene sees a move as Carrie Eighmey departs from the University of Idaho to embrace a new challenge as the head coach at the University of South Dakota, leaving behind a significant impact after a short but notable tenure.
Mark Daigneault Wins 2023-2024 Kia NBA Coach of the Year
Mark Daigneault of the Oklahoma City Thunder has clinched the prestigious 2023-2024 Kia NBA Coach of the Year award, as announced by the league. At just 39 years old, Daigneault emerged as a frontrunner, surpassing Jamahl Mosley from the Orlando Magic and Chris Finch of the Minnesota Timberwolves by a substantial margin.
In a stellar tally, Daigneault amassed 473 points, including 89 first-place votes, far ahead of Mosley’s 158 and Finch’s 105. His leadership this season was particularly remarkable given the youth of the Thunder team, which boasted the second youngest squad in the NBA.
Under his guidance, the Thunder not only exceeded expectations but also secured the top seed in the Western Conference with an impressive 57-25 season record. This achievement marks a significant 17-win improvement from last season, propelling the team to its first playoff appearance in four years.
Daigneault becomes the second Thunder coach to receive this honor, joining Scott Brooks who received the award in the 2009-2010 season. His coaching has notably led Oklahoma City to become the youngest team to ever top or tie for the best conference record since the NBA established its conference system in 1970-71. This extraordinary performance underscores a season of exceptional growth and success for the Thunder.
Carrie Eighmey Departs University of Idaho for South Dakota Head Coaching Role
Carrie Eighmey, who recently helmed the University of Idaho women’s basketball team, has accepted the head coach position at the University of South Dakota, as reported by Midco Sports’ Jay Elsen.
Eighmey, originally from Edgar, Nebraska, leaves Idaho after just one season, where she led the Vandals to a 15-16 record. Her coaching career prior to Idaho included a successful eight-year stint at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, highlighted by three consecutive NCAA Division II tournament appearances.
During her brief tenure with Idaho, Eighmey was active in the transfer market, bringing in seven new players. Following her departure, these athletes might consider reopening their recruitment options. Her move to South Dakota marks a significant shift in her coaching career as she takes on new challenges in a different conference.
