Creighton basketball is witnessing the end of an era that defined its rise on the national stage. Greg McDermott, the architect behind the programâs transformation, has announced he will retire after the 2025â26 season, closing a remarkable 16-year chapter that delivered 365 wins and consistent NCAA relevance.
The news has sent shockwaves across college basketball, not just because of the timing, but because of what McDermott represents to Creighton. He was more than a head coach â he was the foundation of a golden era that turned the Bluejays into a respected Big East contender.
Greg McDermottâs 365-Win Legacy at Creighton
Greg McDermott leaves Creighton as the most successful coach in program history. Over 16 seasons, he compiled a 365-188 record, establishing one of the most stable and competitive programs in college basketball.
Across his entire Division I career, McDermott amassed more than 500 wins, coaching at Northern Iowa, Iowa State, and Creighton. His teams reached the NCAA Tournament 13 times, highlighting a career built on long-term consistency and player development.
His tenure at Creighton included:
- 10+ NCAA Tournament appearances
- Elite Eight run in 2023
- Sweet 16 appearances in 2021 and 2024
- Big East regular-season title in 2019â20
- 10 consecutive 20-win seasons before 2026
These achievements placed Creighton among the most reliable programs outside traditional powerhouses, something few could have predicted before McDermottâs arrival.
How McDermott Transformed Creighton Basketball
One of the defining moments of McDermottâs tenure was leading Creighton through its transition from the Missouri Valley Conference to the Big East. Instead of struggling in a tougher conference, the Bluejays thrived.
Creighton posted .500 or better records in Big East play in 11 of 13 seasons, an incredible achievement given the competition level. This consistency proved that the program was not just surviving â it was competing.
McDermott also built a clear identity. His teams were known for efficient offense, disciplined execution, and strong player development. Even in seasons without elite recruits, Creighton remained competitive due to structure and coaching.
His impact extended beyond wins. He elevated recruiting standards, strengthened the programâs national image, and helped turn Omaha into one of the most difficult home environments in college basketball, regularly drawing crowds of nearly 17,000 fans.
The Doug McDermott Era and National Recognition
No discussion of Greg McDermottâs legacy is complete without mentioning his son, Doug McDermott. From 2010 to 2014, Doug became one of the greatest scorers in college basketball history, finishing with over 3,000 career points.
He was a three-time All-American and the 2014 National Player of the Year, bringing national attention to Creighton. But what made Greg McDermottâs coaching even more impressive was sustaining success after Dougâs departure.
Instead of fading, Creighton continued to win, proving the programâs success was built on more than just one superstar.
Final Season Falls Short of Expectations
McDermottâs final season has not matched the high standards he set. Creighton finished 15-17, marking its first losing season in years and snapping a streak of consistent 20-win campaigns.
The Bluejays also fell short of NCAA Tournament contention, a rare outcome under McDermott. However, the team will still compete in the postseason Crown tournament, where he will officially conclude his coaching career.
While the ending may not be ideal, it does little to diminish what he accomplished over more than a decade of success.
Alan Huss Takes Over in Planned Transition
Unlike many coaching exits, Creightonâs transition is already in place. Alan Huss, a former Creighton player and longtime assistant under McDermott, will take over as head coach starting in the 2026â27 season.
The succession plan was set in motion in April 2025 when Huss returned from High Point, where he led the program to its first NCAA Tournament appearance in school history.
Huss brings familiarity and continuity, having spent seven years within the Creighton system. His promotion signals stability, but also comes with pressure to maintain the programâs high standards.
Replacing a coach with 365 wins and sustained success is never easy, especially in a competitive conference like the Big East.
McDermottâs Lasting Impact on Creighton
Greg McDermottâs influence goes beyond wins and tournaments. He redefined expectations for Creighton basketball. Before his tenure, consistent national relevance was uncertain. Now, it is expected.
He proved that Creighton could compete with top programs, develop NBA-level talent, and remain a factor in March Madness year after year. That shift in perception may be his greatest achievement.
As Creighton moves forward, the program will be judged by the standard McDermott created â a standard built on consistency, competitiveness, and postseason success.
Fans can explore more about Creightonâs basketball history on the official Creighton athletics website, while broader college basketball updates are available on ESPNâs college basketball section.
Greg McDermottâs retirement marks the end of one of the most successful eras in Creighton history. Sixteen seasons, 365 wins, multiple NCAA runs, and a transformed program ensure his legacy will endure. The McDermott era may be ending, but its impact will shape Creighton basketball for years to come.
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