John Becker

John Becker was born on April 16, 1968, in Fairfield, Connecticut. His coaching career began in 1994 as an assistant at Gallaudet University, where he later became head coach from 1997 to 1999. During this period, he also served as the men’s tennis coach and worked in information technology. He pursued a master’s degree in information systems at George Washington University before returning to coaching in 2004 as an assistant at his alma mater, Catholic University. At Catholic, he contributed to a 41-17 record, including a 21-7 season and an NCAA Division III Tournament appearance in 2005-06.

In 2006, Becker joined the University of Vermont, initially as the director of basketball operations for two seasons. He was promoted to assistant coach, contributing to four postseason berths, including the 2010 NCAA Tournament. In 2011, Becker was appointed head coach, marking a significant turning point in his career. In his 13 seasons as head coach, he has established himself as the winningest coach in program history with 308 wins, surpassing Tom Brennan. Under his leadership, the Catamounts have secured seven America East Championships and nine America East regular season titles. He has also guided the team to 11 postseason berths, including six NCAA Tournament appearances.

Under Becker’s guidance, the Vermont Catamounts have achieved 20 wins in every full season, a feat shared only with Kansas and Gonzaga among Division I programs. He has been honored with seven America East Coach of the Year awards and five NABC All-District I Coach of the Year awards. His coaching philosophy emphasizes strong defense, with the team consistently ranking among the national leaders in scoring defense and field-goal percentage defense. Becker has also overseen significant player development, helping numerous athletes achieve personal milestones and earn conference honors, while also maintaining high academic standards for his teams.