Chris Jans

Chris Jans is a distinguished figure in college basketball, currently serving as the head coach of the Mississippi State Bulldogs. His coaching journey began in the junior college ranks, where he made a significant impact at Kirkwood Community College, leading the team to a remarkable 31-6 record and a NJCAA Division II Championship in 1998. This success laid the groundwork for his ascent in the coaching world, showcasing his ability to develop talent and foster winning programs.

Transitioning to NCAA Division I, Jans took the helm at Bowling Green in 2014, where he revitalized the program, achieving the most wins in over a decade during his single season. His next chapter unfolded at New Mexico State from 2017 to 2022, where he orchestrated an impressive 122-32 record. Under his leadership, the Aggies captured four regular-season and three WAC Tournament championships, earning three NCAA Tournament berths, including a historic upset over Connecticut in 2022.

In 2022, Jans was appointed head coach at Mississippi State, where he quickly made his mark by leading the Bulldogs to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances in his first two seasons. His teams have consistently demonstrated resilience and defensive prowess, earning recognition for their performance against top-ranked opponents. Jans’ coaching philosophy emphasizes accountability and player development, evident in the accolades received by his players.

With a career winning percentage of .723, Jans stands among the elite coaches in NCAA history. His commitment to excellence and proven track record of success make him a prominent leader in college basketball, poised to continue elevating the Mississippi State program.