COLUMBUS, Ind. — Indiana University Columbus has announced the hiring of Todd Howard as the new Head Men's Basketball Coach, marking a pivotal moment for a program entering its third year of existence. Howard becomes just the second head coach in program history, bringing more than three decades of high-level coaching experience and a proven record of building successful, sustainable basketball programs.
Howard takes the reins of an IU Columbus program eager to take its next step forward after the first two seasons of competition. With a foundation established and meaningful lessons learned, the timing aligns well with Howard's reputation as a program builder, culture leader, and developer of high-character student-athletes.
Entering his 32nd season coaching in the state of Indiana, Howard is widely respected across the basketball landscape for his impact at every level of the game — including Division I, NAIA, high school, and elite youth development. His career has been defined by competitive success, player advancement, and a strong emphasis on accountability, discipline, and culture.
Howard arrives at IU Columbus after spending the past two seasons at Marian University (Ind.) (2024-26), where he served as Associate Head Coach and Interim Head Coach. In that role, he oversaw all aspects of program operations, including recruiting, player development, scheduling, academics, fundraising, and compliance. During his tenure, Marian earned multiple Top 25 wins, placed three players on All-Conference teams in the highly regarded Crossroads League, and helped several student-athletes advance to Division I opportunities.
Prior to Marian, Howard spent eight seasons as head coach at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School (2014-22), where he built one of Indiana's most respected high school programs. He posted a 124-68 record, became the second-winningest coach in school history, and led the Braves to eight consecutive winning seasons. His teams captured four conference championships, three sectional titles, and a No. 1 state ranking in 2022, while consistently playing one of the toughest schedules in Indiana. Known for a defensive-minded identity, Howard developed 20 collegiate players, including Division I athletes at programs such as Maryland, Miami (OH), Bellarmine, Chattanooga, Florida A&M, and Air Force.
The foundation of Howard's career was built during a 19-year tenure at IUPUI (1995-2014), where he served as head coach, associate head coach, and assistant coach. He played a critical role in the program's transition from NAIA to Division I, contributing to an overall 350-294 record and helping guide the Jaguars to multiple conference tournament championship games. His recruiting and player development efforts helped produce 22 professional players, 26 All-Conference selections, and the eventual rise of George Hill, a 2008 NBA First-Round Draft Pick who went on to a 15-year NBA career. In 2009, Howard was recognized by HoopScoop as one of the Top Five Division I Assistants in the nation.
Howard's influence extends well beyond the sidelines. Throughout his career, nine former assistants and fourteen former players have gone on to become head coaches at the WNBA, NCAA, and high school levels, with multiple state championships earned by members of his coaching tree.
At IU Columbus, Howard's vision is clear: build a championship-caliber program grounded in player development, accountability, and community impact. As the program enters Year Three, his leadership signals a commitment to long-term growth, competitive excellence, and the development of complete student-athletes on and off the court.
Coach Howard and his wife, Patti, have two children — Adam, Director of Basketball Operations/Recruiting at Western Michigan University, and Katie, an Associate Consultant at Modern Executive Solutions, who also serves on the coaching staff at Fishers High School.
With Todd Howard at the helm, IU Columbus Men's Basketball enters its next chapter with momentum, purpose, and a proven leader ready to build a winner.
