Dana Altman has become synonymous with successful college basketball coaching, demonstrating his prowess throughout various coaching positions. This article will dissect his coaching record, analyze his achievements, and compare him to other notable coaches in the NCAA landscape.
Introduction to Dana Altman
Born on June 16, 1957, in Crete, Nebraska, Dana Altman has built a remarkable career in college basketball coaching. With more than 30 years of experience, he is known for his tactical acumen, player development skills, and remarkable turnaround abilities at different programs.
Coaching Career Overview
Early Career
Altman began his coaching career at the University of Kansas, where he served as an assistant coach. He then moved to the University of Creighton, where he found early success.
Creighton Era (1994–2010)
During his time at Creighton, Altman transformed the basketball program into a competitive force within the Missouri Valley Conference, leading the Bluejays to several NCAA Tournament appearances.
Oregon Tenure (2010–Present)
In 2010, Dana Altman took over as the head coach at the University of Oregon. Under his leadership, Oregon basketball has seen a resurgence, making multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and consistently competing at a high level.
Coaching Record Highlights
Win-Loss Record
As of the end of the 2022-2023 season, Dana Altman boasts an impressive career record of 745 wins and 361 losses across all coaching positions.
NCAA Tournament Appearances
| Year | Team | Round Reached |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Creighton | Second Round |
| 2012 | Oregon | Sweet 16 |
| 2016 | Oregon | Final Four |
Notable Achievements
- Multiple conference championships
- Final Four appearance in 2017
- Consistent NCAA Tournament qualification since 2013
Coaching Style and Philosophy
Offensive Strategies
Altman’s teams are known for their fast-paced offensive style, capitalizing on transition opportunities and three-point shooting. He emphasizes ball movement and spacing, which helps to keep defenses guessing.
Defensive Approach
Defensively, Altman prefers a blend of man-to-man and zone defenses. His ability to adapt his defensive schemes based on the opponents has been a hallmark of his coaching style.
Comparison of Dana Altman with Other NCAA Coaches
Coaching Achievements
| Coach | Wins | NCAA Titles | Final Four Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dana Altman | 745 | 0 | 1 |
| Mike Krzyzewski | 1,170 | 5 | 12 |
| Jim Boeheim | 1,000+ | 1 | 5 |
Pros and Cons of Coaching Styles
Pros
- Effective player development
- Ability to adapt strategies
- Creating a positive team culture
Cons
- Lack of NCAA Championship titles
- High-pressure expectations
Impact on Players and Community
Player Development
Many players credit Altman for their growth, both on and off the court. His emphasis on discipline, work ethic, and accountability has helped develop several NBA players, including Dillon Brooks and Chris Boucher.
Community Engagement
Altman’s influence extends beyond the court; he’s actively involved in community service and youth programs, demonstrating a commitment to making a positive impact in Eugene and beyond.
Local Cultural Impact
Oregon’s Basketball Community
The University of Oregon holds a special place in the hearts of many in the state. Altman’s success has reignited local pride in college basketball, particularly as fans fill Matthew Knight Arena for home games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Dana Altman’s coaching style?
Dana Altman is known for his fast-paced offensive strategies and adaptable defensive schemes, focusing on player development and team culture.
How many NCAA tournament games has Dana Altman won?
As of 2023, Altman has won 10 NCAA tournament games in his career, showcasing his effectiveness in the postseason.
What are Dana Altman’s career highlights?
Altman’s career highlights include multiple NCAA tournament appearances, a Final Four run, and significant player development achievements.