Southern Methodist University (SMU) has made a significant move by hiring former University of Southern California (USC) men's basketball coach Andy Enfield. This decision comes as SMU prepares to transition to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) starting next season.
The coaching change at SMU was prompted by the departure of Rob Lanier in March, who subsequently took on a new role at Rice University. Enfield, a seasoned coach with a notable track record, gained recognition in 2013 when he led Florida Gulf Coast to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament in only his second year as a head coach.
During his tenure at USC, Enfield achieved a record of 220-146 and secured five NCAA Tournament appearances, including an impressive run to the Elite Eight in 2021. Despite the talent on this year's USC team, which included standout guards Isaiah Collier and Boogie Ellis, as well as Bronny James, the team finished with a 15-18 record and an 8-12 performance in the Pac-12 conference.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new opportunity, Enfield stated, 'I am so excited to join the SMU family. It is an incredible time for the university as we enter the ACC. The investments SMU has made in athletics, the support and alignment from leadership, as well as the passion of the SMU fan base and community made this an incredibly attractive opportunity. We will make Mustang fans and the city of Dallas proud and cannot wait to get started.'
Enfield's arrival at SMU comes just ahead of the university's move to the ACC, alongside Stanford and Cal from the Pac-12. SMU Athletic Director Rick Hart expressed confidence in Enfield's abilities, stating, 'Coach Enfield is enthusiastic about joining the Mustang family and the ACC. He has a strong track record of building winning teams on the court and in the classroom and pursuing championships with integrity. We believe he is a game changer for SMU Men's Basketball.'
With a promising future ahead in the ACC, SMU and its supporters are looking forward to the impact that Andy Enfield will bring to the men's basketball program as they aim for success both on and off the court.
