Green Bay men’s basketball coach Doug Gottlieb has announced he is stepping away from his national radio show to dedicate his full attention to his coaching duties, a decision revealed following the team’s recent victory over UC Santa Barbara.
Gottlieb made the announcement in a postgame news conference after Green Bay’s 67-64 win, stating that he needs to prioritize his players and the program’s development. He has been balancing coaching with his radio show since being hired in May 2024, but now plans to stop the show by the end of this week or next, though he will continue a podcast.
The coach emphasized that his players deserve a fully dedicated coach, and he wants to ensure he is as prepared as possible. He shared an example where his radio duties prevented him from joining the team bus for a trip, leading him to fly separately, which he found unsatisfactory for his coaching role.
Gottlieb’s first season with Green Bay was challenging, with a 4-28 record, but the team has shown improvement this year, currently standing at 6-7 with five wins in their last seven games. This progress likely influenced his decision to focus more intently on coaching.
Additional context from reports includes a recent incident where Gottlieb was seen throwing a chair after a close loss to Robert Morris, underscoring the pressures of managing dual responsibilities. This event may have contributed to his realization that splitting his focus was untenable.
Gottlieb’s background includes nearly two decades as a broadcaster but no prior college coaching experience before joining Green Bay. His shift to full-time coaching represents a significant career change aimed at enhancing his effectiveness and the team’s performance.
The decision is viewed as a strategic move to bolster Green Bay’s basketball program. By dedicating himself solely to coaching, Gottlieb hopes to build a competitive team and improve player development and game strategies.
Looking ahead, Gottlieb’s increased focus on coaching is expected to benefit the Phoenix as they continue their season. His commitment to being fully present for his players could lead to further improvements and a stronger foundation for the program’s future.
