Busting Brackets
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Boston College Basketball: 5 potential candidates to replace Jim Christian

By Benjamin Zacher

Jan 9, 2021; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Virginia Cavaliers forward Jay Huff (30) and Boston College Eagles forward James Karnik (33) jump for the ball during the first half at Conte Forum. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2021; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Virginia Cavaliers forward Jay Huff (30) and Boston College Eagles forward James Karnik (33) jump for the ball during the first half at Conte Forum. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports /
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Vermont John Becker New Hampshire Vs Vermont Men S Basketball 2 12 20
Vermont John Becker New Hampshire Vs Vermont Men S Basketball 2 12 20 /

John Becker

  • HC experience: Gallaudet (1997-99; 6-44), Vermont (2011-present; 228-94)
  • Assistant experience: Gallaudet (1994-97), Catholic (2004-06), Vermont (2006-11)

There are not as many well-renowned mid-major coaches in the country as Vermont’s John Becker, who has cemented the Catamounts as a powerhouse in the America East in his 10-year tenure.  He, obviously, knows the New England area well – and has proven himself as a winning coach.

In 10 years, Becker has recorded a stellar 228-94 overall record during his time at Vermont, which includes a dominant 130-26 mark in America East play.  With the exception of last season – which, would have produced a postseason bid anyway had the season not been canceled – the Catamounts have reached the postseason every year since Becker took over at UVM.

Additionally, Becker owns the highest winning percentage among the 52 Div. I head coaches hired before the 2011-12 season – an assortment that includes Steve Prohm (Iowa State), Archie Miller (Indiana), and Michael White (Florida).

With three NCAA Tournament berths, two NIT berths, and three CBI invites under his belt, Becker has recorded at least 20 wins in all 10 seasons – and has tallied at least 26 in the last four years.

Likewise, Becker is no stranger to competing with top collegiate talent – last season, the Catamounts won their first-ever game against a Big East opponent, taking down St. John’s on the road, and fell at Virginia by just six a few days later.  In the last two NCAA Tournaments, Vermont – a trendy upset pick – fell in the opening rounds to Purdue and Florida State by 10 and 7, respectively.

The Catamounts are in line to win the America East again this season, sitting with a 9-3 overall and AE record and riding a seven-game winning streak ahead of a late-week showdown at UMBC, their top competitor in the league.  Becker – largely known as a defensive stalwart – has been the architect of a team that ranked fifth last season in scoring defense (59.3 ppg).

From a regional standpoint – and as a proven head coach – Becker would be a stellar hire for Boston College.  At 52 and now in his 15th season with the Catamounts (five as an assistant, 10 as the head), however, Becker has not shown the interest in jumping to a Power 5 job – however, now that one in his region has opened, there could potentially be some interest.