Is Mark Few the most underrated coach in college basketball today? The question arises as Few's accomplishments at Gonzaga continue to mount, yet his recognition outside of Spokane remains limited. A bold statement: Few has built one of the most consistently successful programs in NCAA history, achieving feats that many of his peers can only dream of. His 25-year tenure at Gonzaga speaks volumes about his dedication and skill, yet his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame continues to elude him.
Cutting down the nets in April is about the only feat that Few has yet to pull off during this unprecedented run he's been on at the helm of the Bulldogs. As his team prepared to take on the Houston Cougars in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, Gonzaga head coach Mark Few was asked how it would sit with him if his legacy wasn't fully appreciated by the wider basketball community. Few's response was measured, reflecting the humility that defines his leadership style. Despite being overlooked for the Hall of Fame, Few's influence extends far beyond trophies and accolades. He has transformed Gonzaga from a mid-major program into a perennial powerhouse, consistently competing against elite teams across the country.
| Bio Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Mark Few |
| Date of Birth | June 17, 1962 |
| Place of Birth | Spokane, Washington |
| Education | Gonzaga University (B.A., Business Administration) |
| Professional Career | Head Coach, Gonzaga Bulldogs Men's Basketball Team (1999 - Present) |
| Awards & Honors | Multiple National Coach of the Year Awards, Assistant Coach for USA Basketball (2022-24) |
| Notable Achievements | 26 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, multiple Final Four appearances, one National Championship game appearance (2017) |
| Personal Interests | Fishing, outdoor activities |
| Reference | Gonzaga Athletics Official Website |
David Roth once humorously remarked that Mark Few looks like Mark Davis if he got a life coach and a haircut and maybe got into 'eating keto.' While the comparison may have been made in jest, it highlights Few's transformation over the years—not just physically but also professionally. From a young assistant coach to one of the most respected figures in college basketball, Few's journey is nothing short of remarkable. His ability to adapt and evolve while maintaining core principles has been key to his success.
Gonzaga University head coach Mark Few has established himself as one of the most successful coaches in NCAA Division I basketball annals in his 25 seasons at the helm. Under his guidance, the Bulldogs have achieved an astonishing 26 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, cementing their place among the elite programs in the nation. Few's impact goes beyond wins and losses; he has cultivated a culture of excellence both on and off the court. Players who have passed through Gonzaga under Few's tutelage often speak fondly of his mentorship and the values instilled in them during their time there.
In a recent segment of Talking Zags, Gonzaga legend Dan Dickau and SWX Sports Director Austin Getz discussed Few's future and the challenges facing the program after another strong season came to an end against Houston. Both acknowledged Few's contributions to the program and expressed confidence in his ability to continue leading the team toward greatness. Dickau emphasized the importance of recruiting top-tier talent and ensuring the roster remains competitive year after year. Meanwhile, Getz highlighted Few's knack for developing players and preparing them for professional careers in the NBA.
Gonzaga has been dominant under Mark Few's leadership, a fact that even Arizona alum and fan communities cannot deny. Few's program-building prowess and commitment to mentoring players have created a dynasty in Spokane. Despite occasional criticism from detractors, Few's track record speaks for itself. The Bulldogs consistently rank among the best teams in the nation, thanks largely to Few's strategic vision and unwavering focus on fundamentals. His teams are known for their discipline, teamwork, and execution—qualities that reflect Few's own coaching philosophy.
When the pressures of the NCAA tournament become overwhelming, Few finds solace in fishing—a pastime that allows him to recharge and refocus. A brief jaunt into eastern Washington's rivers and lakes might salve any angst he encounters as the competition heats up. This balance between work and leisure underscores Few's approach to life and coaching. He understands the importance of maintaining perspective and staying grounded, even amid the chaos of March Madness.
As an assistant coach for the 2022-24 USA National Team, Few further solidified his reputation as one of the premier minds in basketball. Working alongside some of the brightest talents in the sport, Few brought his expertise to the international stage, contributing to the development of Team USA's strategies and player preparation. This experience not only enhanced Few's credentials but also provided valuable insights that he could apply back at Gonzaga.
While Few's induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame remains a point of contention, his legacy is already secure. The foundation he has laid at Gonzaga will continue to inspire generations of athletes and coaches alike. Whether or not he cuts down the nets in April, Few's impact on the game of basketball is undeniable. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
