LATEST REPORT: Oklahoma city thunder Current head coach Mark Daigneault Withdraws From NCCA And NBA Draft ,Returns to Cougars, Submitted resignation to…see more

In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples through both the NBA and college basketball communities, Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault has reportedly submitted his resignation to the Thunder front office. Multiple sources close to the organization suggest that Daigneault intends to return to collegiate coaching, rejoining the Cougars program, where his coaching journey first began.

A Stunning Decision After a Historic Run

Daigneault, who guided the Thunder to their first NBA Championship earlier this year, was widely regarded as one of the brightest young coaching minds in the league. His player-development philosophy and calm, analytical approach had transformed Oklahoma City into a title contender built around youth and discipline.

His resignation—if confirmed—marks one of the most surprising coaching moves in recent NBA history. “It’s rare to see a championship-winning coach walk away at the height of success,” said one league executive. “But Daigneault has always been a man of principle, driven by teaching more than trophies.”

Confusion Over “Draft Withdrawal”

The phrase “withdraws from NCAA and NBA Draft” appeared in early online reports but has sparked confusion among fans. Coaches, unlike players, do not participate in drafts. Some analysts believe the wording refers to Daigneault’s withdrawal from ongoing negotiations involving potential advisory roles or long-term front-office contracts connected to both NBA and collegiate programs.

Return to the Cougars

The “Cougars” reference points to Daigneault’s possible return to a college basketball team—speculation centers on the Washington State Cougars or the Houston Cougars, both of which have made significant coaching changes in recent months. While no official confirmation has been made, insiders say Daigneault’s passion for developing young athletes and building culture “from the ground up” was the key motivator behind his return to college basketball.

“He’s always been more of a teacher than a manager,” one former assistant noted. “The college environment fits his style perfectly.”

Thunder Face a Leadership Gap

Daigneault’s departure leaves the Thunder front office scrambling for stability. Assistant coach Dave Bliss is rumored to be the leading candidate for interim head coach, though general manager Sam Presti has yet to make a public statement.

The timing is especially difficult, coming just weeks before the start of training camp for the 2025–26 NBA season. Thunder players, including MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, were reportedly “caught off guard” by the news.

What’s Next

As fans await an official statement from both the Thunder and Daigneault, speculation continues to swirl across social media. Whether the move marks a permanent shift to college basketball or a temporary sabbatical remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: Mark Daigneault’s impact on the Thunder, and on the modern approach to player development, will be felt for years