Charleston hires Akron's John Groce as new head coach
John Groce is leaving the Akron Zips to be the head coach at Charleston.
Charleston's search for a new head coach is over. The Cougars have hired John Groce, formerly of Akron, as their new men's basketball coach. Groce's new contract at Charleston is for five years.
"John Groce is one of the most decorated Head Coaches in the country. He and his staff made a tremendous impact on the Akron community during their nine seasons at the helm. The winning speaks for itself but his leadership of men and his passion for people is what impresses us the most," said Charleston athletic director Matt Roberts.
Groce joins Charleston after nine seasons leading the Zips. During that span, Groce was named MAC Coach of the Year twice, and posted a winning record in all but one campaign. Per a source, John Groce has informed the Akron team he’s leaving for Charleston.
https://t. co/LhrEZhhSdL — Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) March 30, 2026 He led the Zips to the NCAA Tournament in three out of the last four seasons. Before his time with Akron, John Groce spent five seasons as the head coach at Illinois.