In 2022, the Georgia basketball scene witnessed a unique Selection Sunday. Amidst the anticipation of the NCAA Tournament bracket unveiling, the college basketball community was surprised by Georgia’s announcement of Mike White as the new head coach of the Bulldogs, stealing headlines as the selection show drew to a close.
Expressing his excitement for the opportunity, White emphasized his alignment with President Jere W. Morehead and Athletics Director Josh Brooks’ vision for UGA basketball. He highlighted their shared belief in providing comprehensive support for student-athletes to excel both on and off the court, underscoring his optimism for the future of Georgia basketball.
White’s appointment marked a significant milestone for Georgia, with his track record of success evident from his tenure at Florida and Louisiana Tech. Over 11 seasons, White averaged more than 22 wins per season, securing Coach of the Year honors in three different conferences: the SEC, Conference USA, and WAC.
Josh Brooks, the J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics at Georgia, expressed satisfaction with White’s arrival, citing his proven track record as a successful coach and leader of men. Brooks expressed confidence in White’s ability to elevate Georgia basketball to prominence, setting sights on competing for national championships across all sports.
White’s inaugural season with the Bulldogs proved fruitful, marked by a notable increase in wins compared to the previous season. Bolstering optimism for the future, White and his coaching staff successfully recruited top-tier prospects and impressive transfers, positioning Georgia among the nation’s elite basketball programs.
White’s coaching journey traces back to his playing days at Ole Miss, where he was a standout player before transitioning to coaching. His coaching career has been characterized by success, with notable achievements at both Florida and Louisiana Tech, including postseason appearances and conference titles.
Beyond his professional endeavors, White hails from a family deeply ingrained in athletics, with relatives holding prominent roles in college sports administration. His personal life is anchored by his marriage to former Ole Miss volleyball player Kira Zschau, with whom he shares five children.
In summary, Mike White’s ascent in the coaching ranks, marked by his appointment at Georgia, reflects a storied career defined by success, leadership, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
