Steve Alford Will Retire From Wolf Pack Basketball
The veteran head coach will step down following the upcoming 2026-2027 season.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Basketball
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University of Nevada basketball head coach Steve Alford announced he will retire at the conclusion of the upcoming 2026-2027 season. Alford steps away after a 36-season career that included leading the Wolf Pack to a 24-13 record and an NIT bid last year.
Why it matters
Alford, who ranks 10th all-time among active Division 1 coaches with 724 career wins, is the only coach in NCAA history to guide six separate programs to the NCAA Tournament. His departure marks the end of a tenure that has significantly shaped the trajectory of Reno's collegiate basketball program.
Alford concludes a 36-season career with 724 total wins, one of the highest figures among active coaches. The team enters this final transition period coming off a 24-13 performance in the 2025-2026 season.
The players
Steve Alford
The head coach of the Nevada Men's basketball team who is retiring after a 36-season career.
University of Nevada
The institution that oversees the Wolf Pack basketball program in Reno.
The details
The University of Nevada announced that Alford will coach his final season before stepping down from the bench. He is widely recognized for his unique distinction of leading six different programs to the NCAA Tournament throughout his career. Fans can see the coach and the team back at Lawlor Events Center for the start of his farewell season in October.
Timeline
The Nevada Wolf Pack finished the 2025-2026 season with a 24-13 record.
The 2026-2027 season tips off against Utah on October 17, 2026.
Steve Alford will retire at the end of the 2026-2027 season.
The Truckee Meadows View
Alford's career transition follows the established pattern of legacy coaches stepping down after building programs at multiple high-level institutions. His departure marks a significant leadership shift for the university program compared to similar long-tenured NCAA coaching exits.
Local fans and students should look for the team's season opener against Utah on October 17, 2026. This final season serves as the last opportunity for the community to see Alford lead the Wolf Pack at the Lawlor Events Center.
The takeaway
Alford leaves a legacy as one of the most successful active coaches in the country after 36 seasons. Reno supporters should track the team's performance during the upcoming 2026-2027 season to witness his final year at the helm.
Further reading
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