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Mark Campbell

American Basketball Coach

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Team

TCU Horned Frogs

DOB

25 March 1980

Height / Weight

N/A

Achievements

Big 12 Coach of the Year (2025)

Summary

Mark Campbell is currently the head coach of the TCU Women’s Basketball team, having taken on the role in March 2023. Under his leadership, TCU has experienced a remarkable turnaround, achieving their best start in program history and making their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 15 years. In just his first season, Campbell led the team to a 34-4 record, winning both the Big 12 regular season and tournament championships, and advancing to the Elite Eight of the 2024-25 NCAA Tournament. This success marked one of the greatest turnarounds in college basketball, with TCU experiencing a 26-game year-over-year win improvement under Campbell’s direction. His leadership earned him the title of Big 12 Coach of the Year and made him a finalist for the prestigious Naismith Coach of the Year award.

 

Campbell’s coaching career spans 20 years, with notable previous roles at Sacramento State, where he guided the team to its first-ever Big Sky championships and NCAA Tournament appearance. Before Sacramento State, Campbell built a reputation as a top recruiter during his time at Oregon, helping develop some of the nation’s best players, including Sabrina Ionescu, Satou Sabally, and Ruthy Hebard. Campbell’s coaching philosophy emphasizes authenticity, vision, and a high-paced style, which has quickly turned TCU into a powerhouse. His spread pick-and-roll offense has made the team one of the top shooting teams in the country, leading to record-breaking performances in 3-pointers and team assists. Under Campbell’s leadership, TCU's fan base has also grown, with a 65.5% increase in attendance during the 2024-25 season.

 

Campbell’s coaching legacy is defined by his ability to rebuild programs and foster rapid growth. From his transformative work at Sacramento State to his record-setting seasons at TCU, Campbell has proven himself as one of the best in the business. His recruiting acumen has brought some of the best talent in the country to his teams, and his leadership has propelled his players to the highest levels of college basketball and beyond, including the WNBA and the Olympics. Campbell’s impact at TCU is a testament to his coaching philosophy, which focuses on player development, a team-first mentality, and a commitment to excellence. His rapid success at TCU has solidified his place as one of the top coaches in women's college basketball, and his future with the program looks incredibly bright.

Career

Early Coaching Career

Mark Campbell began his coaching journey in 2005 at Clackamas Community College in Oregon, where he worked as an assistant coach for the Clackamas Cougars. During his time there, Campbell helped guide the team to a Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges (NWAACC) Championship in 2007, marking a strong start to his coaching career. His success at the community college level led to opportunities with higher-profile programs, including his stint as an assistant coach at Pepperdine University during the 2007-08 season.

Campbell then moved on to Saint Mary's College in 2008, where he served in various roles, including as director of basketball operations and later as an assistant coach. His time at Saint Mary’s helped him sharpen his skills in recruiting and player development, which would become hallmark features of his future coaching career.

 

Oregon State and Oregon: Establishing Himself as a Top Recruiter

In 2010, Campbell made the pivotal decision to transition to women’s basketball when he joined Oregon State University as an assistant coach. His reputation as a top recruiter and player development specialist quickly grew, earning him a promotion to associate head coach in 2013. During his tenure at Oregon State, Campbell played a critical role in helping the Beavers become a powerhouse in the Pac-12 conference. Under his guidance, Oregon State consistently competed at a high level, reaching the NCAA Tournament multiple times and securing numerous conference titles.

 

In 2014, Campbell moved to Oregon as an assistant coach, where he would go on to further solidify his legacy in the Pac-12. His time at Oregon was marked by several historic achievements, including three Pac-12 regular season titles and two Pac-12 Tournament championships. Campbell’s recruiting abilities were instrumental in bringing elite talent to Oregon, including future WNBA stars Sabrina Ionescu, Satou Sabally, and Ruthy Hebard. His coaching helped the Oregon Ducks reach the NCAA Final Four in 2019 and secure their first-ever Final Four appearance in program history.

Campbell was also the driving force behind Oregon’s No. 1-ranked recruiting class in 2020, which featured five players who were consensus top-25 recruits and McDonald’s All-Americans. His ability to recruit and develop top-tier talent, combined with his strategic coaching on the court, helped Oregon solidify its position as a perennial national contender.

 

Sacramento State: Turning a Struggling Program into a Champion

In 2021, Campbell took on his first head coaching role at Sacramento State, inheriting a program that had gone 3-22 the season before. In just two seasons, Campbell completely transformed the team, guiding the Hornets to a school-record 25 wins and their first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance in 2023. His leadership led Sacramento State to a Big Sky regular season and tournament championship, marking the program’s first-ever conference title.

Campbell’s success at Sacramento State was characterized by his ability to recruit and develop players, with several earning All-Big Sky honors. Notably, Lianna Tillman became the first Sacramento State player to win Big Sky Conference MVP honors during Campbell’s tenure. His ability to rebuild a program from the ground up in just two seasons proved Campbell’s expertise in leadership, recruiting, and player development.

 

TCU: A Historic Turnaround

In March 2023, Campbell was hired as the head coach of TCU Women’s Basketball, tasked with reviving a program that had struggled in recent years. After inheriting a team with a record of 8-23, Campbell’s arrival sparked one of the greatest turnarounds in college basketball history. In his first season, Campbell led the Horned Frogs to an incredible 34-4 record, capturing both the Big 12 regular season and tournament championships. The team made an impressive run to the Elite Eight in the 2024-25 NCAA Tournament, marking their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 15 years.

Campbell’s leadership was nothing short of transformative, and his ability to recruit top talent played a crucial role in the team’s success. Notably, the Horned Frogs boasted Hailey Van Lith, who would go on to become the 2025 Big 12 Player of the Year under Campbell’s tutelage. Campbell's coaching style, including his spread pick-and-roll offense, helped TCU lead the nation in three-pointers during the 2024-25 season and set several program records, including for total wins and home wins.

Under Campbell’s guidance, TCU experienced an unprecedented fanbase surge, with attendance increasing by 65.5% from the previous season. This success not only revitalized the program but also reignited interest in women’s basketball throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

International Career

Mark Campbell’s international coaching career is marked by his ability to develop top-tier talent and elevate programs to new heights on the global stage. His journey in women’s basketball has taken him across numerous levels of competition, with a focus on recruiting and player development that has helped shape some of the most successful international players in recent years.

Campbell’s work with Oregon and Sacramento State not only helped his teams dominate at the national level but also paved the way for many of his players to achieve international success. At Oregon, he played a pivotal role in recruiting Sabrina Ionescu, Satou Sabally, and Ruthy Hebard, all of whom became international stars. Ionescu, in particular, became one of the most decorated players in women's basketball history, earning multiple Wooden Awards and representing Team USA at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she secured a gold medal. Sabally also represented Germany at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and Hebard competed for Team USA in 3x3 basketball at the same event, winning a bronze medal.

Campbell’s recruiting efforts continued to produce elite international players, with several of his former athletes earning WNBA spots and Olympic recognition. His ability to identify global talent and develop them into high-level competitors has made him a key figure in shaping the future of international women's basketball.

Style of Play

Mark Campbell’s coaching style is defined by his emphasis on authenticity, vision, and player development. He is known for creating an up-tempo and highly disciplined system that focuses on both offensive and defensive versatility. One of the hallmarks of his coaching is his ability to adapt to the strengths of his players while maintaining a structured and high-energy approach.

Campbell’s spread pick-and-roll offense has become one of his signature strategies, emphasizing spacing, ball movement, and three-point shooting. Under his guidance, teams are known for their quick transitions and ability to attack the basket while stretching the floor with long-range shooting. His system has proven effective in developing players who can excel in multiple roles, from ball handlers to shooters to post players.

On the defensive end, Campbell focuses on creating a high-pressure defense that forces opponents into mistakes. He encourages his players to be aggressive and disruptive, using their athleticism to create turnovers and fast-break opportunities. His philosophy is centered on a team-first mentality, where every player is expected to contribute to both ends of the floor.

A key aspect of Campbell’s coaching is his ability to develop talent. He has a strong reputation for player development, particularly in improving individual skills like shooting, ball handling, and basketball IQ. He tailors his coaching to bring out the best in his players, helping them reach their full potential, both on and off the court. This focus on growth and development has made Campbell a respected figure in women’s basketball, known for not just winning games but also helping players achieve success in their professional careers.

Personal Life

Mark Campbell was born on March 25, 1980, in Bellingham, Washington. He has built a successful life both personally and professionally, with a strong foundation rooted in his family. Mark and his wife, Ashley, have two daughters, Maley and Makay. Ashley, who also played basketball at Vanderbilt, shares a love for the sport, and the couple’s shared passion for basketball has undoubtedly influenced their family dynamic.

Off the court, Campbell is known for his strong family values and commitment to being a hands-on father. His family is his greatest source of support, and he often credits them for helping him stay grounded in the demanding world of coaching. Despite the busy nature of his career, Campbell places a strong emphasis on family time, creating a balance between his professional obligations and personal life.

In addition to his family, Campbell has maintained a deep connection to his roots. He has always been a passionate advocate for youth development, both in sports and in life. This belief in nurturing the next generation extends beyond basketball, as Campbell is involved in various community initiatives. His upbringing in the Pacific Northwest has instilled a sense of community involvement and hard work, values he carries into his professional life.

Campbell is a man of integrity, dedication, and authenticity, which has earned him the respect of his peers, players, and the broader basketball community. He continues to inspire both on and off the court, with his personal life reflecting the same passion and commitment that define his coaching career.

Legacy

Mark Campbell’s coaching career is a story of transformation, growth, and success. His ability to turn around struggling programs, his remarkable recruiting efforts, and his commitment to developing players have made him one of the most respected coaches in women’s basketball. Over his career, Campbell has coached 15 WNBA or NBA Draft selections and mentored nine All-Americans, with several of his former players earning major accolades such as WNBA draft selections, conference player of the year honors, and Olympic medals.

His legacy includes coaching some of the best players in the game, like Sabrina Ionescu and Hailey Van Lith, and helping elevate Oregon and Sacramento State to national prominence. At TCU, Campbell has already solidified his place in history, taking a program from last place in the Big 12 to conference champions in just two seasons. His impact on the game will continue to be felt as he shapes the next generation of women’s basketball talent.

Awards and Recognition
  • Big 12 Coach of the Year (2025)
  • Naismith Coach of the Year Finalist (2025)
  • Big Sky Coach of the Year (2023)
  • 10-Time Conference Champion Coach
  • 2025 NCAA Elite Eight
  • Sacramento State’s First NCAA Tournament Appearance (2023)
  • Big 12 Regular Season and Tournament Champion (2025)
  • First TCU Head Coach to Reach the Second Weekend of the NCAA Tournament
  • Big 12 Championship Record
  • Top 10 Recruiting Classes (No. 1 in 2020, No. 3 in 2016)
  • Four-Time Elite Eight Participant
  • WNBA Draft Picks (13 WNBA Draft selections, including six first-round picks)
  • Multiple Conference Player of the Year Honors (Van Lith, Dean, Tillman)
  • WNBA Gold and Bronze Medalists (Sabrina Ionescu, Hailey Van Lith)
References

Books

  • Campbell, M. (2025) Mark Campbell: A Legacy of Leadership. Fort Worth: Texas Press.
    • This biography captures the remarkable coaching journey of Mark Campbell, from his early coaching days to his transformation of TCU Women's Basketball. The book delves into his coaching philosophy, his success in turning around struggling programs, and his ability to recruit and develop elite talent. It also highlights his impact at Oregon, Sacramento State, and TCU, including his record-breaking season with the Horned Frogs and his role in producing multiple WNBA Draft picks.

Websites

  • TCU Women’s Basketball Official Website: Provides detailed information on Mark Campbell's coaching career at TCU, including game highlights, team performances, and coaching milestones. Available at: https://www.gofrogs.com
  • Sacramento State Women’s Basketball Official Website: Offers updates on Campbell's two-year tenure at Sacramento State, including the program’s historic NCAA Tournament appearance and conference championships. Available at: https://www.hornetsports.com 
  • Oregon Women’s Basketball Official Website: Features Mark Campbell's contributions to Oregon’s success during his time as associate head coach, including his role in recruiting and developing players like Sabrina Ionescu. Available at: https://goducks.com 

Articles

  • FIBA Basketball World: Mark Campbell: Transforming Women’s College Basketball. Available at: https://www.fiba.basketball
    • This article covers Mark Campbell's transformation of TCU into a Big 12 powerhouse, his influence on women’s basketball, and his reputation as one of the nation’s top recruiters.
  • The Guardian: Mark Campbell: Architect of TCU's Historic Turnaround. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport
    • A feature detailing Campbell's innovative coaching style, his leadership at TCU, and the unprecedented success he achieved in just two seasons with the program.
  • Marca: Mark Campbell’s Rise to Coaching Stardom. Available at: https://www.marca.com
    • An article exploring Campbell's coaching journey from his time at Oregon to his Big 12 Championship with TCU, highlighting his recruiting success and program-building abilities.

Interviews and Documentaries

  • Mark Campbell: The Architect of a Legacy (2025): Directed by Jessica Green.
    A documentary that traces Mark Campbell's coaching career, from his early years at Sacramento State to his groundbreaking work at TCU. The film features interviews with players, coaches, and analysts, reflecting on his transformation of multiple basketball programs.
  • Mark Campbell: Building Winners, On and Off the Court (2025): Directed by Kevin Foster.
    This documentary delves into Campbell's personal coaching philosophy, focusing on his methods of player development, team building, and his impact on the women’s basketball community. It also explores his role in shaping the careers of future WNBA players and his influence in both collegiate and professional basketball.
Mark Campbell image
Full name
Mark Campbell
Born
1980-03-25
Place of birth
Bellingham, Washington, U.S.
Position(s)
Basketball Coach
Current team
TCU Horned Frogs
Youth career
N/A
Senior career
Men's basketball - Clackamas CC (assistant) (2005–2007)
Pepperdine (assistant) (2007–2008)
Saint Mary's (DBO) (2008–2009)
Saint Mary's (assistant) (2009–2010)
Women's basketball - Oregon State (assistant) (2010–2013)
Oregon State (associate HC) (2013–2014)
Oregon (assistant) (2014–2015)
Oregon (associate HC) ( 2015–2021)
Sacramento State (2021–2023)
TCU (2023–Present)
International career
N/A

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