In a surprising turn of events, the Southern Illinois Salukis have decided to part ways with their head coach, Bryan Mullins. The decision announced recently, has left fans and basketball enthusiasts speculating about the future of the program.
Bryan Mullins’ Journey: From Player to Coach
Bryan Mullins, an SIU alumnus, returned to his alma mater as the head coach in 2019. His tenure spanned five seasons, where he achieved a commendable record of 86 wins and 68 losses. Mullins, a former player, had a deep connection with the Salukis.
As a player, he was part of the team that cracked the NCAA Tournament back in 2007. His defensive prowess earned him the title of two-time Defensive Player of the Year in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC).
Bryan Mullins’ Recent Performance and Challenges
While Mullins’ time at Southern Illinois has been relatively successful, the team faced challenges this season. The Salukis held a respectable 19-13 record, but their journey ended on a three-game losing streak. Notably, they suffered a tight 84-82 upset at the hands of the UIC Flames in the first round of the conference tournament.
The MVC landscape has evolved, with teams like Drake, Bradley, and the University of Northern Iowa building strong programs. However, the Salukis haven’t received an NCAA Tournament invitation since 2007.
The decision to part ways with Mullins reflects the program’s ambition to find a coach who can consistently lead them to postseason success.
Mullins’ departure is bittersweet. His roots are firmly planted in Illinois, having played high school basketball at Downers Grove. Additionally, his brother, Brendan, served as an assistant on his coaching staff.
The decision to move on from Mullins is undoubtedly tough, considering his ties to the program and his contributions as a player and a coach.
As the Salukis bid farewell to Mullins, they embark on a search for a new leader—one who can guide them back to the NCAA Tournament and continue the legacy of Southern Illinois basketball.
