Kansas City, Missouri, February 2, 2026
The University of Missouri-Kansas City has announced the hiring of Mark Turgeon as the new head coach for the men’s basketball team, signaling a pivotal shift in the program’s direction. Turgeon, a seasoned leadership figure with a successful coaching tenure, aims to develop a winning culture and competitive spirit. His extensive experience and local roots in Kansas are expected to resonate with the community and elevate the program’s aspirations as they seek to build a solid tradition in collegiate basketball.
Kansas City, MO –
Seasoned Leader Mark Turgeon Joins Kansas City Roos, Signaling New Era for UMKC Men’s Basketball
The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) men’s basketball program is set to embark on a new chapter, having announced the hiring of Mark Turgeon as its new head coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season. This significant development, confirmed by UMKC Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Dr. Brandon Martin on Sunday, February 1, 2026, marks what many are calling a pivotal moment for the Kansas City Roos.
Turgeon’s arrival represents a strategic move for the program, aiming to leverage his extensive experience and proven track record to cultivate a culture of excellence and competitive achievement. His commitment to developing talent and fostering winning traditions aligns with the ambitious spirit seen in many local Kansas City MO businesses and Missouri MO entrepreneurs who strive for growth and success through dedicated leadership and innovation.
A Return to Midwest Roots
For Mark Turgeon, this appointment signifies a return to his roots. A native of Topeka, Kansas, he previously honed his skills as a standout player at the University of Kansas from 1983 to 1987, where he was part of a team that reached the Final Four in 1986. His coaching journey also includes a five-season stint as an assistant coach for the Jayhawks, further cementing his deep ties to the regional basketball landscape. This homecoming aspect offers a compelling narrative of personal achievement coming full circle, reflecting the enduring value of foundational experiences and local connections.
A Distinguished Coaching Pedigree
Turgeon brings a robust resume built over 24 seasons as a head coach, boasting an impressive overall record of 476-275 (.634). His career tenure places him among the top 30 in career wins among active Division I head coaches, a testament to his consistent performance and leadership in the demanding world of collegiate athletics. Throughout his career, Turgeon has guided his teams to a remarkable 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, demonstrating his capacity to build and sustain high-level competitive programs.
Developing Talent and Achieving Milestones
His coaching journey began at Jacksonville State from 1998 to 2000, before taking the helm at Wichita State from 2000 to 2007. During his time with the Shockers, he famously led them to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 in 2006 and was recognized as the Missouri Valley Conference Coach of the Year. Following this success, Turgeon moved to Texas A&M, where his teams made four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 2007 to 2011.
His most extended and impactful tenure was at the University of Maryland from 2011 to 2021. There, he led the Terrapins to five NCAA Tournament bids, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2016, and secured a Big Ten regular-season title in 2020. He was also named Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2015 and maintained a winning record in all 11 seasons at Maryland. Furthermore, Turgeon has a notable history of developing future professional talent, having coached 11 players who went on to the NBA, including Alex Len, who was a fifth overall draft pick in 2013. His distinguished career was further recognized with his induction into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024.
The Road Ahead for the Roos
The Kansas City Roos men’s basketball program, a Division I institution since the 1987-88 season, has historically sought to establish a consistent winning tradition. Notably, the program has yet to make an appearance in the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament. The current coaching transition comes as Marvin Menzies concludes his tenure after the 2025-26 season, a decision announced on January 12, 2026. As of Sunday, February 1, 2026, the Roos held a 4-18 record.
Turgeon’s hiring signals a bold new direction and a significant investment in the program’s future. The ambition to elevate the Roos to new heights resonates with the drive and determination characteristic of Kansas City small businesses and Missouri MO entrepreneurs who consistently seek innovation and strive for market leadership. The challenge of transforming a program with untapped potential into a perennial contender will require strategic vision, dedicated effort, and the full support of the community.
Community and Economic Impact
The excitement surrounding a high-profile coaching hire like Mark Turgeon extends beyond the basketball court, creating a ripple effect that can benefit the broader Kansas City MO business community. Increased attendance, heightened national visibility for UMKC, and a surge in local pride can translate into tangible economic growth for the surrounding neighborhoods. This kind of investment in local institutions, whether through educational initiatives or athletic programs, plays a crucial role in the overall economic development of the Midlands region. Such efforts often showcase the powerful synergy between private investment, community engagement, and the pursuit of excellence.
A New Chapter of Opportunity
Mark Turgeon’s appointment as head coach offers a fresh start and a clear path toward building a winning tradition for the Kansas City Roos. His proven ability to develop players, lead successful teams, and navigate competitive conferences brings a level of expertise that can inspire both current and future student-athletes. This development is a testament to UMKC’s commitment to elevating its athletic programs, fostering personal achievement, and contributing positively to the dynamic landscape of Kansas City. The local community has an opportunity to rally behind this initiative, supporting the team and contributing to what promises to be an exciting era of growth and competitive spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has UMKC hired as its new head men’s basketball coach?
UMKC has hired Mark Turgeon as its new head men’s basketball coach.
When will Mark Turgeon begin his role as head coach at UMKC?
Mark Turgeon will begin his role as head coach at UMKC for the 2026-27 season.
What is Mark Turgeon’s career coaching record?
Mark Turgeon’s career coaching record is 476-275 (.634) across 24 seasons as a head coach.
Has Mark Turgeon led teams to the NCAA Tournament before?
Yes, Mark Turgeon has led his teams to 10 NCAA Tournament appearances during his career.
What is the history of the UMKC men’s basketball program regarding the NCAA Tournament?
The UMKC men’s basketball program has never played in the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament.
Where is Mark Turgeon from, and what are his local ties?
Mark Turgeon is a Topeka, Kansas, native and played college basketball at the University of Kansas from 1983-1987. He also served as an assistant coach at Kansas.
What notable achievements did Mark Turgeon have at previous coaching positions?
At Wichita State, he led the Shockers to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 in 2006 and was named MVC Coach of the Year in 2006. At Texas A&M, his teams made four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. At Maryland, he led teams to five NCAA Tournament appearances, a Sweet 16 in 2016, and a Big Ten regular-season title in 2020, also earning Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2015.
Key Features of Mark Turgeon’s Coaching Career and UMKC Hire
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Role | Head Coach, Kansas City (UMKC) Men’s Basketball |
| Start Date | 2026-27 season |
| Overall Head Coaching Record | 476-275 (.634) over 24 seasons |
| NCAA Tournament Appearances | 10 total |
| Previous Head Coaching Positions | Jacksonville State (1998-2000), Wichita State (2000-2007), Texas A&M (2007-2011), Maryland (2011-2021) |
| Key Achievements | 2006 MVC Coach of the Year (Wichita State), 2006 NCAA Sweet 16 (Wichita State), 2015 Big Ten Coach of the Year (Maryland), 2016 NCAA Sweet 16 (Maryland), 2020 Big Ten Regular-Season Title (Maryland) |
| Player Development | Coached 11 future NBA players |
| Hall of Fame Recognition | 2024 Kansas Sports Hall of Fame inductee |
| UMKC NCAA Tournament History | Never played in the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament |
| Local Ties | Topeka, Kansas native; former player and assistant coach at University of Kansas |
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Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
