New College of Charleston basketball coach understands expectations of program
Nov. 2—Newly hired College of Charleston coach John Groce understands the assignment. The former Akron coach is a student of college basketball history and knows the tradition and expectations that surround the College of Charleston program. After nearly a two-decade drought, the Cougars returned to March Madness three times since 2018, including back-to-back appearances in 2023 and 2024 under ...
New College of Charleston basketball coach John Groce is well aware of the high expectations that come with leading the Cougars. The former Akron coach understands the program's tradition and the pressure to compete for championships. Groce, who was hired due to his success in conference tournaments and ability to reach the NCAA Tournament, has had to rebuild the team from scratch.
Despite a year of turnover, Groce has added experienced players like guards Eli Ellis, Max Green and Xavier Abreu, as well as a 7-footer in Braden Pierce. However, the team has struggled with speed of play, a weakness Groce is working to address. The Cougars' 2025-26 record was 21-11, with a 14-4 mark in the Coastal Athletic Association.
Key returnees include Martin Kalu and Will Mortimore, while new additions include guards Ben Bradford and Max Green. The team's first game of the season is against Drake on November 19.
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