Kelvin Sampson - Building and Practicing Toughness

The Coach

Texas High School Coaches Association

HELPING COACHES TO HELP KIDS - Since 1930

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Kelvin Sampson is a highly accomplished basketball coach with over three decades of experience at both the college and professional levels. Known for his success in building winning programs, Sampson has consistently guided teams to new heights throughout his career.

Coaching Experience:

• University of Houston (Head Coach, Since 2014)
  • Led Houston to four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, including the 2021 NCAA Final Four
  • Secured five American Athletic Conference titles
  • First coach in school history to lead Houston to seven straight 20-win seasons
  • Became the second-winningest coach in program history with a .740 winning percentage
• Former Head Coaching Roles:
  • Indiana University
  • University of Oklahoma
  • Washington State University
  • Montana Tech
• NBA Experience:
  • Former Assistant Coach with the Houston Rockets

Career Achievements:

• 699-340 career record over 33 seasons
• 17 NCAA Tournament appearances
• One of only 15 coaches in NCAA history to lead four or more schools to the NCAA Tournament
• One of only 16 coaches to lead multiple programs to the NCAA Final Four
• Six-time National Coach of the Year
• Six conference Coach of the Year awards across four different leagues

Off-Court Contributions:

• Strong focus on academic success with numerous players earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees
• Actively involved in community service, including:
  • Hosting Thanksgiving lunch events for Star of Hope Mission residents
  • Leading Texas Special Olympics activities at Hofheinz Pavilion and the Guy V. Lewis Development Facility