After a thorough vetting process, Clark University in Massachusetts has trimmed its list of potential head coaches for the men's basketball program to a handful of finalists. The interview stage has been completed, and administrators say a final decision is imminent.
Among the leading candidates are Matt Graves, currently an assistant at UMass Lowell, Chris Lydon, the associate head coach at Tufts University, and Mike Mailhot, who has spent seven seasons on the staff at the University of Chicago. Each brings a distinct blend of playing experience and coaching acumen that aligns with Clark’s competitive aspirations.
Background on the finalists
Graves previously served as an assistant at Mount St. Mary’s and held head coaching posts at D2 Belmont Abbey and D3 McDaniel before moving to UMass Lowell. His trajectory includes stints at several levels of collegiate basketball, giving him a broad perspective on player development.
Lydon, a former player at UMass, joined the Tufts staff three seasons ago after coaching at D3 Suffolk and D3 Wheaton. His on‑court experience as a collegiate point guard complements his administrative growth within the Tufts program.
Mailhot’s coaching career includes seven years at the University of Chicago, along with earlier roles at D3 Muhlenberg and Nichols. He also played at Emmanuel (MA), providing him with a deep connection to the New England basketball community.
In addition to the three confirmed finalists, two current head coaches have been reported to have interviewed for the position, though their status as official contenders has not been confirmed. One of those interviewees has strong ties to Clark and coaches outside of New England, while the other is a New England D3 coach whose identity remains under wraps.
The vacancy arises from the departure of Tyler Simms, who left Clark in early June after seven seasons as head coach to accept an assistant role at Bucknell University. Simms’ tenure left a sizable imprint on the program, and the university is now looking to build on that foundation with a fresh leadership direction.
University officials have emphasized that the selection process will prioritize candidates who can sustain competitive performance while fostering academic integration and community engagement. As the finalists move toward a decision, the campus community awaits the announcement that will shape the next chapter of Clark basketball.