Xavier coaching search: Chris Mack gives definitive update on coaching future

As Xavier goes through another coaching search, a familiar name has been linked to the job. Chris Mack could return to Cincinnati after getting back into coaching ahead of the 2024-2025 season. However, all rumors were put to bed on Tuesday night with an update on social media.

Mack sent an update to the College of Charleston fanbase, nearing the one year anniversary of his hiring. He announced a return for a second year with the program. “Run it back” as Mack put it with the hopes of finding even more success in 2025-26.

“Cougar Nation,” Mack began via X. “Just about a year ago my family joined me at Cistern Yard to celebrate the start of something special here in Charleston. You have been incredibly supportive from day one. The Macks can’t wait to run it back in year two. Better than ever. Go Cougs!!”

Xavier is looking to replace Sean Miller, who was on his second stint with the Musketeers, after he left in favor of Texas. Mack put together a good run when he was in charge from 2009-2018. Starting off as a member of the A-10, Xavier moved into the Big East under Mack’s leadership and hardly missed a beat.

Nine seasons resulted in eight NCAA Tournament appearances. Three Sweet Sixteens and an Elite Eight are on there too, only losing in the first round once. Seeds ranged from one (2018) to 12 (2014). The Elite Eight run came as an 11-seed, taking down the region’s six, three, and two seeds.

Replicating those results may have been enough for Xavier to seriously consider Mack. But he is officially taking his name out of the running

Chris Mack wraps up positive Year One at College of Charleston

College of Charleston had the tough task of replacing Pat Kelsey last offseason — a place Mack himself used to coach. Back-to-back NCAA Tournaments was a first for the program since the final three years of the 1990s. Expectations were high.

While Mack did not get them back into the field, there were still positives to take away. The Cougars finished 24-9 overall and 13-5 in the CAA, good enough for third place. A one-point loss to UNC-Willimington in the CAA Tournament semifinals wound up being the difference.

COC athletic director Matt Roberts will be thankful he does not have to conduct another coaching search. Mack is here to stay.