At 61 years old, Leon Rice is doing everything he can to finally shake the label that’s followed him for more than a decade, the accomplished coach who still hasn’t won an NCAA Tournament game. Since taking over at Boise State before the 2010-11 season, Rice has turned the Broncos into one of the Mountain West’s most consistent programs, but March success has remained elusive.
A Veteran Coach Still Searching for the Breakthrough
The Broncos have made five NCAA Tournament appearances under Rice, falling in the first round each time. Despite that, his winning percentage sits at 64 percent, and he’s piled up more than 315 career victories, proof of steady excellence in a competitive league.
Consistency, But Not Contentment
Boise State reached the NCAA Tournament three straight seasons before missing out last year despite a 26-win campaign, the second-highest total of Rice’s tenure. The 2025-26 Broncos aim to notch their fifth consecutive 20-win season and make another push toward the postseason.
Rice has led Boise State to two Mountain West regular season titles and one tournament championship, earning Coach of the Year honors twice, most recently in 2022. But as he’s quick to admit, the next step, that elusive first March Madness win, is what continues to drive him.
From the Northwest to the National Stage
A Richland, Washington native, Rice graduated from Washington State in 1986 before building his career through assistant stops at Oregon, Northern Colorado, and Yakima Valley Community College. After a one-year head coaching stint at Yakima, he joined Mark Few’s staff at Gonzaga in 1999, helping lay the groundwork for one of college basketball’s great modern dynasties.
Rice spent 11 years with the Bulldogs before taking the Boise State job in 2010. He’s since become the program’s winningest coach and a respected figure nationally, even spending time with Team USA’s staff during the 2022 FIBA Under-18 Americas Championship.
A Manageable Schedule, but High Stakes
Boise State opens the 2025-26 season with five straight home games at ExtraMile Arena, including a notable matchup against Wichita State on November 18. The Broncos will then travel to Hawaii for a Thanksgiving tournament featuring USC, NC State, and Seton Hall. December brings marquee non-conference battles against Butler at historic Hinkle Fieldhouse and Saint Mary’s on a neutral court.
A Make-or-Break Year in Boise
After being left out of last season’s NCAA field despite a strong résumé, Rice didn’t hide his frustration. But he knows the only answer is performance. The path back to March runs through consistency, toughness, and a few statement wins along the way.
For Rice and Boise State, the 2025-26 season isn’t just about returning to the tournament; it’s about finally breaking through once they get there.