Former Sacramento Kings standout Mike Bibby is set to take on a new role as the basketball coach at Sacramento State, according to someone familiar with the situation on Monday. The individual, who wished to remain anonymous as the official announcement was scheduled for Tuesday, confirmed the hiring. The decision was initially reported by a popular sports news outlet.
Bibby, who achieved NCAA glory in 1997 with Arizona, later embarked on a successful 14-year career in the NBA. Notably, he spent seven impressive seasons with the Sacramento Kings, where he played a pivotal role in propelling the team to the 2002 Western Conference Finals. Despite their valiant effort, they were narrowly defeated by the Los Angeles Lakers in a decisive Game 7.
After retiring from professional basketball in 2012, Bibby ventured into coaching, gaining experience at the high school level in Arizona. This new appointment at Sacramento State marks his first opportunity to coach at a higher level. The university is eager to enhance its presence in college athletics, aspiring to transition from the FCS tier in college football to the more prestigious FBS level. They aim to join a prominent conference such as the Mountain West or perhaps even a restructured Pac-12. Presently, Sacramento State competes in the Big Sky Conference.
Bringing in Bibby reflects Sacramento State’s initiative to rejuvenate their basketball program. The Hornets endured a trying season, finishing with a record of 7-25 under interim coach Michael Czepil. Czepil had assumed the role last spring following David Patrick’s departure to become an associate head coach at LSU.
During Patrick’s tenure, Sacramento State compiled a record of 28-42 over two seasons. Since ascending to the Division I ranks in the 1991-92 season, the Hornets have yet to secure a berth in the NCAA Tournament. They have only achieved a winning record twice, with campaigns finishing at 16-14 in the 2019-20 season and 21-12 in the 2014-15 season, respectively.