16. Chris Jans (Mississippi State)
Under seven years of Ben Howland, Mississippi State made the NCAA Tournament just one time. Since Jans was brought into this program in 2022, the Bulldogs have danced in each of his first two seasons. Jans’ extensive coaching history most recently involved success with New Mexico State, though he’s certainly handling his first head coaching gig at a power conference school with ease.
The Bulldogs lost a few important pieces from last season but still sit 15-4 and in the national rankings. They had some great performances early in the year, winning at Memphis and SMU, and are now trying to settle into SEC play. All three of Mississippi State’s losses in the conference have come to Top 10 squads and this certainly looks to be Jans’ team with the deepest and highest potential.
When the Bulldogs were picked 10th in the preseason polls in the SEC, it wasn’t exactly expected to see them in the NCAA Tournament for a third straight year. If they keep their head above the sand in SEC play, you’ll see Mississippi State’s name called on Selection Sunday and that’s a testament to their head coach. Tolu Smith and others are gone, but the potential for greatness at Mississippi State hasn’t gone anywhere.