Few coaches in college basketball represent loyalty to one program the way David Richman does
A Lifelong Bison
His relationship with North Dakota State began in 1997 as a player and has stretched across nearly three decades. After a short time away, Richman returned to Fargo in 2003 as a graduate assistant and climbed the coaching ladder steadily, becoming head coach in 2014.
Since taking over, Richman has built one of the most consistent programs in the Summit League. Entering the 2025–26 season, he had compiled 211 wins, including multiple postseason appearances and a string of 20-win campaigns that established North Dakota State as a perennial contender.
A Proven Winner
Richman’s track record speaks for itself. The Bison have reached the NCAA Tournament three times under his leadership, including the 2019–20 season when their bid was cut short after the tournament’s cancellation. North Dakota State has claimed two regular-season titles and three Summit League Tournament championships during his tenure.
Last year, the Bison went 21–11 overall and 10–6 in conference play, finishing fourth in the league. Richman was honored as the 2024–25 Summit League Coach of the Year, a testament to his ability to develop talent and keep his team competitive regardless of roster turnover.
Their season ended with a tough loss to South Dakota in the conference quarterfinals, just a week after beating that same team at home to close the regular season.
A Challenging Start to 2025–26
Expectations were once again high as the preseason coaches poll slotted North Dakota State fourth in the Summit League, behind St. Thomas, Omaha, and South Dakota State. But the start hasn’t gone as planned.
The Bison dropped a narrow two-point decision at Oregon State to open the season and followed that with a 12-point loss at UC Davis. Despite the early setbacks, Richman’s team has a prime opportunity to regroup with four straight home games, beginning November 11 against Cal State Northridge.
Players to Watch
Richman will lean on returning leaders Noah Fedderson and Markhi Strickland to set the tone. Both earned preseason All-Summit League Second Team recognition and bring valuable experience to the lineup. Strickland averaged 11.1 points per game last season as a steady scoring threat, while Fedderson contributed 8.6 points and provides versatility in the frontcourt.
Depth and balance have long been the hallmarks of Richman’s best teams, and he’ll need both as the Bison try to rediscover their rhythm and climb the Summit League standings.
Looking Ahead
North Dakota State’s early struggles may test their toughness, but Richman’s history of steady leadership gives reason for optimism. He’s rebuilt before, and his teams traditionally grow stronger as the season progresses. With veteran scorers and a stretch of home games on the horizon, the Bison are well-positioned to get back on track.