Mike White Announces Return to College Basketball in 2026, Citing “Unfinished Deal”
Former Florida Gators head coach Mike White has officially announced his return to college basketball in 2026, stating that he has “unfinished business” in the sport. White, who previously led the Gators from 2015 to 2022, is eager to take on a new challenge after a brief hiatus from coaching.
White’s return has already sparked speculation about where he will land. While he has not yet revealed his next coaching destination, sources close to him suggest that he has been in discussions with multiple programs. His statement about an “unfinished deal” has fueled rumors that he may return to a program where he previously coached or take over a team with championship aspirations.
During his tenure at Florida, White compiled a 142-88 record and led the Gators to four NCAA Tournament appearances, including an Elite Eight run in 2017. He later coached at Georgia from 2022 to 2024 but stepped away from the sidelines to spend more time with family and reassess his coaching future.
“I’ve had time to reflect, recharge, and learn,” White said in his announcement. “The passion for coaching never left, and I feel like there’s an unfinished deal that I need to complete. I’m excited to get back in 2026 and build something special.”
White’s coaching style, known for its defensive intensity and player development, is expected to attract interest from schools looking to make an impact in the NCAA. His ability to guide teams to consistent postseason success makes him a valuable asset for programs aiming to rebuild or elevate their status.
While fans eagerly await more details about White’s return, one thing is certain—he is ready to make a strong comeback. Whether it be at a familiar school or a new opportunity, his return in 2026 is set to be one of the biggest coaching storylines in college basketball.
