Ben Howland was born on May 28, 1957 in the state of Oregon. He grew up with a passion for basketball and played the sport throughout his youth. After graduating from Weber State in 1979, Howland pursued a professional basketball career and played overseas in Uruguay.
Despite enjoying success on the court, Howland eventually turned his attention to coaching and began his coaching career at the University of California, Santa Barbara. His time as a player and coach helped shape his coaching philosophy and laid the foundation for his future success.
In 2003, Ben Howland was named the head coach of the UCLA Bruins, one of the most prestigious college basketball programs in the country. Over the next decade, Howland led UCLA to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and developed a reputation as a skilled tactician and motivator.
During his nine-year tenure at UCLA, Howland won more than 65 percent of his games, showcasing his ability to recruit top talent and mold them into a cohesive unit. His coaching style emphasized defensive discipline and team-oriented play, earning him respect from his peers and players alike.
One of the highlights of Ben Howland's time at UCLA was coaching Kevin Love during the 2007-2008 season. Love, a highly-touted prospect, thrived under Howland's guidance and helped lead the Bruins to a successful season. Their partnership showcased Howland's ability to develop young talent and maximize their potential on the court.
In 2015, Ben Howland made the move to Mississippi State, taking on the role of head coach for the basketball team. His coaching expertise and track record of success made him an attractive candidate for the position, and he quickly made an impact on the program.
At Mississippi State, Howland continued to emphasize the same principles that had defined his coaching career: hard work, discipline, and teamwork. His coaching style resonated with his players, and he quickly established himself as a leader both on and off the court.
Ben Howland is married to Kim Howland, who was a cheerleader for Weber State, the same school where he graduated from. The couple shares a love for basketball and often attend games together, supporting each other both in their personal and professional lives.
Outside of basketball, Howland enjoys spending time with his family and participating in outdoor activities. He values work-life balance and strives to maintain a healthy lifestyle both physically and mentally.
Throughout his career, Ben Howland has left a lasting impact on the world of college basketball. His dedication to the game, strategic acumen, and mentorship of young athletes have earned him a reputation as one of the top coaches in the sport.
As he continues to coach and inspire future generations of players, Ben Howland remains a respected figure in the basketball community, known for his integrity, work ethic, and commitment to excellence.