FORMER FAN FAVORITE RETURNS TO BLOOMINGTON AS HEAD COACH OF INDIANA MEN’S BASKETBALL, STATES TWO REASONS FOR HIS RETURN…. READ MORE……

Bloomington, IN – In a moment that feels both nostalgic and full of promise, Indiana University has officially welcomed back one of its most cherished basketball legends as the new head coach of the men’s basketball team. The university announced Wednesday that former IU star Steve Alford will take the reins of the program, returning to Bloomington decades after leading the Hoosiers to a national championship as a player.

The news was met with an outpouring of excitement from Hoosier Nation. Fans packed Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall to witness the formal introduction, many of them wearing vintage jerseys from Alford’s playing days in the 1980s. As he stepped to the podium, the standing ovation was deafening—a true homecoming for one of IU’s most beloved figures.

Alford, now an experienced head coach with over 700 career wins, brings with him a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a deep understanding of Indiana basketball culture. He played under legendary coach Bob Knight and became one of the most decorated players in program history, helping lead the Hoosiers to the 1987 NCAA Championship.

“This is where it all began,” Alford said during the press conference. “Coming back to Indiana isn’t just about coaching another team—it’s about coming home. It’s about reconnecting with a community that helped shape me as both a player and a person.”

When asked why he chose now to return to Indiana, Alford stated two specific reasons that motivated his decision.

“First,” he said, “it’s my love for this university. This place is special to me. It always has been. I’ve been fortunate to coach in some great programs, but no matter where I’ve been, Indiana has never left my heart.”

“Second,” he continued, “I believe there’s unfinished business. IU basketball means excellence, tradition, banners. I want to be part of bringing that back. I owe it to this place and to the fans who’ve stood by this program through everything.”

University officials praised Alford’s return, calling it a critical step toward restoring Indiana’s national relevance. Athletic Director Scott Dolson called him “a true Hoosier in every sense of the word,” and added that Alford’s blend of coaching experience and personal connection to the program made him the ideal choice.

Over the years, Alford has led successful programs at New Mexico, UCLA, and Nevada, but the pull of Bloomington remained strong. Now, he returns with a renewed sense of purpose and a fan base eager to see one of their own back on the sidelines.

As the program looks ahead to a new era under Alford’s leadership, expectations are high—but so is the optimism. For many fans, seeing their former hero back in Assembly Hall feels like the beginning of something special.

“I’m not here to relive the past,” Alford said. “I’m here to build a future. And I promise you—we’re going to do it the Indiana way.”