David Ragland, who currently serves as the head coach for the Evansville Purple Aces, has quickly made a significant impact in the world of college basketball.
Since his appointment in 2022, Ragland has transformed the team, achieving their best season in six years with 17 victories. His leadership has not only revitalized the team’s performance but also brought renewed enthusiasm to the community and fans.
Under Ragland’s guidance, the Purple Aces have become a symbol of resilience and dedication.
The team’s remarkable turnaround has attracted attention not only locally but also on a national level.
Ragland’s approach extends beyond the court; he emphasizes the importance of community involvement, a value that resonates well with both players and supporters.
This commitment is evident in their activities at Meeks Family Fieldhouse and the strong connection they maintain with their fan base.
Ragland’s journey in coaching began long before his tenure at Evansville.
His extensive experience includes leading teams to the NJCAA District Tournament Finals and serving in various coaching roles at institutions such as Missouri Southern State College.
His strategic vision and commitment to excellence have solidified his reputation as a coach who not only understands the game but also values the growth and well-being of his players.
As the Purple Aces continue to thrive under his leadership, the future looks bright for both the team and the community that supports them.
Who Is David Ragland?
David Ragland is the head coach for the Evansville Purple Aces men’s basketball team. He has a rich history in the sport both as a player and a coach, leading teams to success at various levels.
Where Did David Ragland Grow Up?
David Ragland grew up in Evansville, Indiana. This close-to-home connection plays a significant role in his coaching career.
Evansville, known for its passion for basketball, has clearly influenced Ragland.
Attending Harrison High School, Ragland was actively involved in sports, showcasing his basketball skills early on.
Evansville’s community and basketball culture have shaped Ragland’s approach to coaching.
His deep roots in this community have fostered a strong connection to both his team and hometown fans.
This local upbringing has undoubtedly impacted his coaching style and philosophy.
Where Did David Ragland Play College Basketball?
Ragland played college basketball at the University of Southern Indiana, competing in NCAA Division II.
During his time with the Screaming Eagles, he honed his skills and developed a deeper understanding of the game.
His experience here is seen as foundational to his capabilities as a coach.
The time spent at Southern Indiana not only refined his playing style but also helped him understand the nuances of coaching and team management.
This experience is crucial, considering Division II’s competitive nature, preparing him for future coaching roles, including his current position at the University of Evansville.
Where Does David Ragland Live?
David Ragland currently resides in Evansville.
Living in the same city where he coaches the Purple Aces allows him to stay deeply connected with the community.
His residence in Evansville keeps him accessible to his players, staff, and fans, fostering a close-knit environment.
Staying in Evansville emphasizes his commitment to the team’s success.
It also highlights his dedication to contributing positively to the local community.
This proximity to the university and its basketball program ensures he is always available to address any challenges and seize opportunities swiftly.
Who Is David Ragland Married To?
David Ragland is married to Annie Ragland.
Their relationship reflects a supportive partnership as Annie often participates in community events alongside her husband.
This supportive environment at home is believed to contribute positively to his coaching career.
Annie’s support is crucial, providing a stable personal life that allows David to focus on his professional responsibilities.
Together, they form a strong duo, engaged both in their family life and the broader Evansville community, showcasing their dedication to the region and its athletic programs.
David Ragland Professional Career
David Ragland has a rich history in college basketball coaching. His career includes multiple coaching roles at various universities before becoming the head coach of the Evansville Purple Aces.
This section highlights his past teams, current role, career ambitions, future prospects, major achievements, and similar coaches.
What Teams Has David Ragland Previously Coached For?
David Ragland started his coaching career at Frank Phillips College, serving as an assistant coach.
He then moved on to Indiana State, where he played a crucial role in the program as an assistant coach.
Ragland later joined Bowling Green, contributing to their development in the Horizon League.
At Northern Kentucky, he helped guide the team to notable postseason appearances.
Ragland also coached at Valparaiso and Utah State.
His time at Utah State was particularly noteworthy, as he was part of a staff that led the Aggies to the NCAA Tournament.
His tenure at Butler as an assistant coach saw him working with the Bulldogs in the Missouri Valley Conference, further honing his coaching skills.
This diverse experience has been instrumental in shaping his coaching philosophy.
What Team Is David Ragland Currently Coaching For?
David Ragland is currently the head men’s basketball coach for the Evansville Purple Aces.
He was named the head coach on May 24, 2022.
In his second season, Ragland has led one of the nation’s top turnarounds, guiding the Purple Aces to their best season in six years with 17 victories in the 2023-24 season.
Under his leadership, the team has improved significantly and gained recognition in the Missouri Valley Conference.
His coaching has rejuvenated the Purple Aces program, previously in need of a resurgence.
The team’s performance reflects Ragland’s ability to inspire and lead in a competitive environment.
Does David Ragland Want To Coach In The NBA?
There is no public indication that David Ragland aspires to coach in the NBA.
His focus appears to be on developing college basketball programs and making significant contributions at the collegiate level.
Ragland has expressed deep commitment to improving the Evansville Purple Aces and helping the players excel both on and off the court.
While the NBA is often a goal for many coaches, Ragland seems dedicated to his current path in college basketball.
His extensive experience and passion for teaching young athletes suggest that he values the mentorship and developmental aspects found in the college game.
What Are David Ragland Future Prospects?
Looking ahead, David Ragland’s future prospects in college basketball appear promising.
His successful turnaround of the Evansville Purple Aces demonstrates his capability to revitalize struggling programs.
Such success could potentially lead to opportunities with other Division I teams or prestigious mid-major programs.
Given his track record, Ragland may attract attention for coaching vacancies in stronger conferences or even higher-profile teams.
His continued success could also see him earning accolades within the coaching community and possibly being considered for coaching roles in elite collegiate basketball environments.
David Ragland Major Achievements And Awards
David Ragland’s major achievements include leading one of the best turnarounds in college basketball with the Evansville Purple Aces during the 2023-24 season.
He helped the team secure their best season in six years with 17 victories.
At Utah State, he was part of the coaching staff that took the team to the NCAA Tournament, a significant milestone for any coaching career.
Ragland has also contributed to postseason appearances for teams like Northern Kentucky and Valparaiso, showcasing his ability to drive teams to success.
Similar Coaches To David Ragland
Similar coaches to David Ragland include those who have made significant impacts at the college level.
Greg Lansing at Indiana State and Darian DeVries at Drake are examples of coaches who have revitalized mid-major programs.
Matt Lottich at Valparaiso, another coach Ragland has worked with, shares a similar career trajectory in improving mid-major teams.
Steve Alford at Nevada and Niko Medved at Colorado State are other coaches who, like Ragland, have demonstrated the ability to turn around struggling programs and lead them to success in their respective conferences.
How Does David Ragland Do With NIL And Transfer Portal?
David Ragland has been actively managing the challenges and opportunities presented by the transfer portal and NIL money.
His approach focuses on leveraging these tools to build a competitive team and support player development.
David Ragland And Transfer Portal
David Ragland has seen significant activity with the transfer portal. In his first full offseason, seven players from the Evansville Purple Aces entered the transfer portal, which included five players in a single day.
This level of movement requires a proactive strategy for recruiting and retaining talent.
Ragland’s ability to navigate the transfer portal has been crucial in rebuilding the team.
Despite the exodus, he has successfully brought in new talent, contributing to Evansville’s best season in six years, with 17 wins in the 2023-24 season.
His approach focuses on finding athletes who are not only skilled but also fit the team’s culture and goals.
David Ragland And NIL Money
NIL money has become a significant factor in college basketball, allowing players to earn from their name, image, and likeness.
David Ragland has been navigating this new landscape carefully, using it to attract and retain top talent.
The impact of NIL money on college basketball has been profound, providing athletes with new financial opportunities, according to an analysis.
Ragland supports his players in securing these deals, understanding that financial stability can positively affect their performance and commitment.
By embracing NIL opportunities, Ragland helps his athletes balance their academic and athletic responsibilities while benefiting financially.
How Much Is David Ragland’s Contract For?
David Ragland’s contract with the University of Evansville’s Purple Aces includes both salary and incentives. These components reflect his value as a coach and his contributions to the team.
How Much Does David Ragland Make In Salary Per Year?
David Ragland’s annual salary as the head men’s basketball coach at the University of Evansville is competitive for the position.
Coaches in similar roles often make between $250,000 and $500,000 per year.
While the specific salary details for Ragland aren’t publicly disclosed, it is likely within this range, considering his role and the expectations placed on him.
Ragland’s success in his second season, leading Evansville to one of its best records in years, likely emphasizes his value.
Salary aligns with the university’s commitment to maintaining a strong basketball program.
How Much Does David Ragland Make In Incentives Per Year?
In addition to his base salary, David Ragland’s contract probably includes various performance-based incentives.
These incentives might include bonuses for reaching particular achievements, such as winning a set number of games, making it to the conference tournament, or progressing to the NCAA tournament.
For instance, coaches usually receive bonuses that can range from $10,000 to $50,000 for milestones achieved during the season.
These incentives not only reward success but also motivate continuous improvement and high performance.
Given Ragland’s positive impacts, his incentive structure would likely reflect achievable goals that foster the team’s success.
What Is David Ragland Net Worth?
David Ragland, the head coach of the Evansville Purple Aces, has made a significant impact in the college basketball world.
Although exact figures for his net worth are not publicly disclosed, there are some factors to consider when estimating it.
Coaching Salary
As a head coach in college basketball, Ragland likely earns a competitive salary.
Career Achievements
Ragland has a notable career. He led Evansville to one of their best seasons in recent years, securing 17 victories in the 2023-24 season.
Achievements like these can often lead to bonuses and incentives.
Additional Income
Coaches often supplement their income through endorsements, public speaking engagements, and possibly book deals.
There is no specific information available about Ragland’s engagements in these areas, but they are common revenue sources for successful coaches.
Factors Influencing Net Worth:
- Salary: Competitive for collegiate head coaches.
- Bonuses: Performance-based incentives.
- Endorsements: Potential for additional income.
- Speaking Engagements: Revenue from public appearances.
Without concrete figures, it is challenging to pinpoint David Ragland’s exact net worth.
However, based on industry standards and his roles, it is likely that he has accumulated a substantial amount through his career in college basketball.