Matthew Driscoll’s First Press Conference at Kansas State: Key Takeaways and Insights

Matthew Driscoll gestures from the sideline during a game, giving direction to his players as the action unfolds on the court. Courtesy: K-State Athletics

After a 16-year tenure as head coach at North Florida, Matthew Driscoll held his first press conference as the new associate head coach at Kansas State. Driscoll’s arrival marks a significant addition to Jerome Tang’s staff, bringing a wealth of experience and a distinctive offensive philosophy shaped by years under coaching legends and his own head coaching journey.

Offensive Philosophy and Priorities

Driscoll was quick to address his reputation as an offensive coach, a trait highlighted in Jerome Tang’s announcement. He emphasized a balanced approach rooted in both offensive and defensive expertise, referencing his formative years under Larry Shyatt (defense) and Scott Drew (offense). Driscoll described how his offensive system evolved by studying successful programs like Belmont, focusing on spacing, rim pressure, and constant movement:

“When you have complete pressure on the rim at a constant level, rolling and replacing, cutting and replacing, multiple cuts to replace, you create amazing space... When you have two gaps, you can really put pressure on the rim.”

He explained that his teams’ offensive success stemmed from creating these opportunities, leading to a balanced attack of layups, dunks, and three-point shots. Driscoll noted that while having skilled players is essential, the system’s structure naturally generates high-quality shots and maximizes player strengths.

Building Shooters: Confidence and the “Right Way” to Play

When asked about shot selection and building a shooter’s confidence, Driscoll drew on his experience developing players like Chaz Lanier. He emphasized that confidence is built through preparation, clarity, and trust:

“When in doubt, you’ll always be in doubt. So how do you help them understand that? ... I say, ‘You want to know how you make a shooter a shooter? You tell them they’re a shooter, and then you treat them like a shooter.’”

Driscoll explained that it’s not just about telling a player to shoot, but about building a system where players know their roles, understand what’s a good shot, and feel empowered to take it. He believes in tracking not just made shots, but also “potential assists”—the right passes that create good shots, regardless of whether the shot goes in:

“We track potential assists. If you make the right pass and the shot doesn’t go in, you still did the right thing. That’s how you build trust and reinforce the right way of playing.”

This approach, Driscoll said, helps players focus on making the correct basketball decision rather than just the outcome, which in turn builds confidence and team chemistry.

Bloodlines and Baselines

One of the more personal storylines emerging from Matthew Driscoll’s move to Kansas State is the involvement of his son in the program. Driscoll shared during his introductory press conference how meaningful it is to have his family closely connected to his professional journey. His son, who will be part of the Wildcats’ basketball program, brings another layer of excitement and motivation for Driscoll as he transitions to Manhattan.

Driscoll emphasized the unique opportunity this presents—not just as a coach, but as a father. He spoke about the importance of mentorship, both on and off the court, and how sharing this experience with his son allows him to model the values and work ethic he hopes to instill in all his players.

“It’s special to have my son here, learning and growing in the same environment. It’s a blessing to be able to guide him, just as I hope to guide the rest of our team. Family and basketball have always been intertwined for me, and this is a new chapter we get to write together.”

Having his son in the program also deepens Driscoll’s investment in the team’s culture and success, as he now has both a professional and personal stake in the Wildcats’ development.

Why Leave a Head Coaching Role for K-State?

Driscoll addressed the unusual move from a long-standing head coaching position to an associate role. He cited the shifting landscape of college basketball, particularly the impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) on mid-major programs, and the growing difficulty in retaining talent. Driscoll also highlighted the unique opportunity to reunite with Jerome Tang, referencing their shared history at Baylor and the deep personal and professional connections between their families:

“On April 3, to my face, coach Tang made it very clear intentionally through prayer and me intentionally. And so because of that... Coach, I want you.”

Driscoll sees his new role as a chance to mentor aspiring coaches and players, leveraging his experience to help others grow, while also rejoining a staff with whom he shares significant history and values.

Moving Forward

Matthew Driscoll’s first press conference as Kansas State’s associate head coach offered a clear look at his coaching philosophy, personal values, and reasons for joining Jerome Tang’s staff. Driscoll brings a wealth of experience, especially on the offensive side of the game, and a passion for mentoring both players and coaches. As Kansas State looks to turn the page after some challenging seasons, Driscoll’s addition represents a new direction and renewed focus for the program.