Story: Adam Nelson (@HD_DirtKing)
Earlier this week (D2 DIRT), I mentioned that Mike Ruane has departed D2 Franklin Pierce University (NH) and will take a HS job in Florida. I have now heard from two great sources that current assistant Art Luptowski is expected to be named as the interim head coach for the 2026-27 season. Luptowski, who had been an assistant on Ruane’s staff for the past two seasons, had previously served as the head coach at Franklin Pierce from 1989-1999. He then spent 15 seasons as the head coach at league foe American International (1999-2014) before departing for the NBA where he served as a scout for the Detroit Pistons, Cleveland Cavaliers, and New Orleans Pelicans. Ruane’s departure and Luptowski’s promotion are expected to be formally announced shortly.
Zooms have been completed for the head coaching position at D2 Edinboro University (PA). I have heard the coaches who received Zoom interviews were: Josh Gross (former assistant at UNC Greensboro, Elon, Belmont Abbey), Anthony Richards (assistant coach Robert Morris), Nick Thorsen (assistant coach Army), Steve Bridgeman (associate head coach Cal U (PA)), a current D2 head coach from Colorado, and possibly a current D1 JUCO head coach. The list has already been cut for on campus interviews. Working to confirm those names now.
I have heard that Keene State associate head coach TC Thacker is on the move and will join the staff at NCAA Division III national champion Mary Washington as a full-time assistant. Thacker had spent the past two seasons at KSU and was an assistant at Bridgewater College before that. An official announcement on this move is expected shortly.
First round Zoom interviews are underway at D3 McDaniel College. Working on names now.
Check out all of the openings at every level of college basketball in HoopDirt’s Coaching Changes Tracker presented by The Coaching Portfolio. The complete list can be found HERE.
