NCAA Basketball: 5 best coaching hires from 2022 offseason

HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT - MARCH 23: Head coach Matt McMahon of the Murray State Racers reacts against the Florida State Seminoles in the second half during the second round of the 2019 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at XL Center on March 23, 2019 in Hartford, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

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NCAA Basketball Dennis Gates (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

4. Dennis Gates, Missouri

Dennis Gates is not the best coach making a move from mid-major to major status (more on him in a bit). But he should be able to lead a successful turnaround of the Missouri Tigers program.

The 42-year-old Gates comes to the Tigers by way of Cleveland State, where he was head coach for three seasons. The first year was a struggle, but the previous two seasons brought postseason trips to the NCAA Tournament and more recently, the NIT.

Missouri is not the worst place to start on the major coaching ladder. This is a program that went to the NCAA Tournament just a year ago. The firing of Cuonzo Martin was a surprise to many, but it was to Gates’ gain at this point.

Gates has already secured one commitment via the JUCO route, bringing big man Mohamed Diarra into the fold. Missouri has also been mentioned in connection with some big transfers, including Camren Wynter.

Gates is counting on the return of Kobe Brown to the roster next season. If Brown returns, the Tigers will have the ability to at least contend for the postseason in 2022-23.

The ascendance to a major coaching job was fairly quick for Gates, who is now embodying the persona of a rising star in the profession. The Missouri job seems like the perfect opportunity for Gates to prove his credentials to a national audience.

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