Will Bailey is returning as an assistant coach for the Loyola Chicago men's basketball team for the 2026-27 season after previously serving in the 2023-24 season. During his last tenure, he helped the team share the Atlantic 10 regular season title and achieve a notable turnaround, going from a 10-21 record to 22-10. Head coach Drew Valentine expressed enthusiasm about Bailey鈥檚 return, emphasizing his selflessness and impact on the players and community. Bailey previously coached at South Carolina for two seasons and has extensive experience with five NCAA Tournament teams.

By the Numbers
  • In the 2023-24 season, Loyola Chicago achieved a +12 win improvement.
  • During Bailey's last stint, the team won the Atlantic 10 regular season title and earned a NIT berth.
State of Play
  • Bailey has worked at various institutions over his coaching career, including South Carolina, Saint Louis, and La Salle.
  • His return comes amid coach Drew Valentine鈥檚 commitment to building a winning culture and developing players both on and off the court.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Bailey is expected to leverage his experience to enhance the team's competitive edge, with aspirations for another championship run in the upcoming season. His track record suggests he could play a pivotal role in player development and team performance.

Bottom Line

Bailey's return to Loyola Chicago signals a renewed commitment to excellence and aims to build on past successes, fostering both player growth and competitive achievements within the A-10 conference.