Iona College has decided to part ways with its men’s basketball coach Tobin Anderson, surprising many fans and sports lovers after just two seasons. This announcement came on March 17, 2025, shortly after a season where the team finished with an even record of 17-17 and reached the MAAC (Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference) championship game. Anderson, known for leading Fairleigh Dickinson University to a shocking upset over Purdue during the 2023 NCAA Tournament, leaves Iona College with a mixed overall record of 33-34.
A Season of Mixed Results
Anderson’s time at Iona was marked by highs and lows. In his first season, the team showed promise, but this year’s efforts to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament fell short despite a strong finish. The Gaels performed admirably, clinching a spot in the MAAC championship game but ultimately lost to Mount St. Mary’s, meaning they missed out on a coveted NCAA Tournament berth. With such a rollercoaster journey in just two years, expectations were set high, especially after Anderson’s impressive background.
The Reasons Behind the Dismissal
- The decision to fire Anderson was influenced by the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, particularly with new NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rules impacting program operations.
- The athletic director, Matthew Glovaski, noted that the necessary business model shifts prompted the change, indicating a focus on adapting to modern college sports dynamics.
- While Anderson did well with roster changes and development, the results did not meet the expectations set by the college’s standard.
Coaching Changes and Future Plans
Following Anderson’s dismissal, the college is reportedly in talks to hire Dan Geriot, an assistant coach with the New Orleans Pelicans, to take over the reins. Geriot’s experience and coaching background make him a promising candidate to lead Iona towards future success in the competitive MAAC.
Looking Back at Anderson’s Career
Tobin Anderson had been regarded as a rising star in coaching, especially after his unforgettable NCAA Tournament victory with Fairleigh Dickinson. His coaching style and strategies gained him recognition among basketball circles. His tenure at Iona lasted only two seasons, during which he overhauled the roster twice in hopes of creating a championship-contending team. However, despite his efforts, the final season results led to a change.
The Impact on Players and Fans
The firing has left students, players, and fans in disbelief, as many celebrated Anderson’s exciting style of play and his leadership during his stint. Some players, like Dejour Reaves, Iona’s leading scorer, are already planning to return next season, indicating a desire for continuity despite this unexpected change.
What’s Next for Iona?
Iona College is known for its competitive spirit and success in collegiate basketball. As they seek a new coach, the school aims to maintain its reputation within the MAAC Conference and continue vying for NCAA Tournament appearances. The firing of Anderson, although shocking, is part of a larger evolution in how college basketball programs are managed, especially in response to new regulations and expectations.
| Coach | Overall Record at Iona | Previous Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Tobin Anderson | 33-34 | Upset Purdue in 2023 NCAA Tournament |
| Dan Geriot (Expected) | Not Yet Determined | Assistant Coach, New Orleans Pelicans |
As the Gaels turn a new page in their history, the excitement continues to brew among fans and players alike, eager for what the next chapter will bring in Iona basketball.
