Mike Woodson, the current head coach of Indiana University’s men’s basketball team, recently opened up about the unplanned start to his coaching career, a path he now describes with a mix of gratitude and surprise. In his words, he was “bamboozled” into coaching—a career twist he never anticipated but one that eventually became his life’s calling.

 

Woodson was a standout player at Indiana under the legendary coach Bob Knight. His on-court achievements earned him an NBA career, where he played for teams like the New York Knicks, Kansas City/Sacramento Kings, Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, and Cleveland Cavaliers over a decade. But despite his success, Woodson never envisioned himself coaching after his playing days. He planned to move away from the sport after retiring, not into it. However, his journey was just beginning.

 

The pivot to coaching came somewhat unexpectedly when he was approached to join the Milwaukee Bucks as an assistant coach. While hesitant at first, Woodson took the opportunity, largely out of respect for the game and a desire to stay connected to the basketball community. What began as a short-term venture turned into a fulfilling career as Woodson found himself climbing the coaching ranks, first in the NBA and later back to his college roots.

 

Reflecting on his journey, Woodson admits that coaching became his passion in a way he hadn’t foreseen. His experience as a player equipped him with a unique perspective, and his time as a coach allowed him to foster talent and impart knowledge, developing skills that have defined his career. He describes it as a challenging yet rewarding path that “bamboozled” him into uncovering his purpose.

 

Woodson’s story took another unexpected turn in 2021 when he was tapped to coach Indiana, returning to the very place his basketball journey began. This move came as a shock to some in the basketball world, considering his years in the NBA and lack of college coaching experience. However, Woodson embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm and dedication, eager to restore Indiana’s prominence in college basketball.

 

Now, leading Indiana University’s basketball program, Woodson is focused on building a competitive team that embodies the values he learned as a player under Coach Knight. He brings a pro-level approach to the college game, emphasizing discipline, skill development, and a tenacity he hopes will drive Indiana’s resurgence.

 

Woodson’s career reflects the unpredictable nature of life and how unexpected turns can lead to profound fulfillment. The coach who was “bamboozled” into the profession is now one of its most respected figures, driven by a passion he never saw coming but that ultimately has shaped his legacy both in Indiana and beyond.