History of Mark Daigneault in Timeline

Mark Daigneault is an American professional basketball coach currently serving as the head coach for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. Known for his developmental focus and strategic approach, Daigneault emphasizes player growth and adaptability within his coaching system. He was named head coach in 2020 and has overseen the Thunder's rebuilding process, focusing on developing young talent and fostering a team-oriented culture. His background includes experience in the Thunder's G League affiliate, the Oklahoma City Blue, showcasing his commitment to player development at all levels.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1980: Father's College Graduation

In 1980, Mark Daigneault's father, Rick, graduated from the College of the Holy Cross and was a member of the Crusader baseball team.

February 23, 1985: Mark Daigneault's Birth

On February 23, 1985, Mark Daigneault was born. He later became a professional basketball coach.

Others born on this day/year

2003: Student Manager for UConn Huskies

In 2003, Mark Daigneault began serving as a student manager for the UConn Huskies under Jim Calhoun.

2007: Started coaching career

In 2007, Mark Daigneault began his coaching career as an assistant for Holy Cross and Florida.

2007: Pursued assistant coaching position

In 2007, after earning his bachelor's degree in education, Daigneault was urged by Calhoun and George Blaney to pursue an assistant coaching position at Holy Cross.

2008: Runner-up of the Patriot League Championship

During the 2008–09 season, the Crusaders finished as runner-up of the Patriot League Championship during Daigneault's tenure.

2008: First Losing Season

With the Thunder in a rebuilding phase, Mark Daigneault finished his first season with a 22–50 record, the first losing season since the 2008–09 season.

2010: Only Thunder coaches to win the award

In 2010, Scott Brooks becomes the only Thunder coach along with Mark Daigneault to win the award.

2010: Tied Highest Win Total with the Blue

In his first season with the Blue, Mark Daigneault tied its highest win total with 28 since the 2010–11 season, which included a playoff appearance.

August 22, 2014: Named Head Coach of Oklahoma City Blue

On August 22, 2014, Mark Daigneault was named the new head coach of the Oklahoma City Blue.

2014: Joined the Thunder Organization

In 2014, Mark Daigneault joined the Oklahoma City Thunder organization.

2015: Named Assistant Coach with the Oklahoma City Thunder

After a brief stint in the 2015–16 NBA season, Mark Daigneault was named as an assistant coach with the Oklahoma City Thunder, reuniting with head coach Billy Donovan.

2015: Joined Billy Donovan's coaching staff

During the 2015–16 NBA season, Mark Daigneault joined Billy Donovan's coaching staff midseason after assistant Maurice Cheeks was sidelined for six weeks.

2016: Rejoined the Blue after Thunder's Playoff Run

In 2016, Daigneault remained with the Thunder for the remainder of the season and later rejoined the Blue after the Thunder's playoff run.

2017: Led Blue to a Franchise-Record 34 Wins

In the 2016–17 season, Mark Daigneault led the Blue to a franchise-record 34 wins and finished first in the Western Conference, but lost in the conference finals.

2019: Thunder and Billy Donovan Part Ways

After the 2019–20 season, the Thunder and head coach Billy Donovan mutually agreed to part ways as the team transitioned into a rebuilding phase.

November 11, 2020: Named Head Coach of the Thunder

On November 11, 2020, Mark Daigneault was named the head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, becoming the fourth head coach in Thunder history.

November 2020: Named Head Coach of the Thunder

In November 2020, Mark Daigneault became the head coach for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

2022: Praised by Players

After the 2022–23 season, many Thunder players credited Daigneault's coaching and their relationship with him during the Thunder's annual exit interviews.

2022: Ranked Top-10 in Defense

During the Thunder's rebuild, Daigneault led the Thunder to multiple seasons ranking top-10 in defense. In the 2022–23 season, the Thunder were one of the best third quarter teams.