Nearly five weeks after announcing his hiring, the University of Missouri-Kansas City introduced new men's basketball head coach Mark Turgeon at a lively event in Kansas City's Union Station. The Kansas native reiterated his vision for a top program, while university leaders and community figures expressed high expectations for NCAA tournament success.
Hundreds gathered at Kansas City's Union Station for the formal introduction of Mark Turgeon as head coach of the UMKC men's basketball team, the Kansas City Roos. The event buzzed with energy from the UMKC Dance Team, mascot KC Roo, and the Roo Mob pep band, joined by campus leaders, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community supporters.
Turgeon, hired in early February after successful stints at Wichita State, Texas A&M, and Maryland, shared his ambitious vision. "We're trying to be the best basketball team that Kansas City has ever seen," he said. "That's our goal. Expect us to win, to have great players, to be well-coached." He added, "It's great to be back in the Midwest and among family. I'm back here because of my family, but also because I believe in this city. Kansas City is a championship town... I need everyone to come support our team."
UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal underscored the stakes: “We want to go to the Big Dance. That’s the expectation. That’s the standard, and Coach Turgeon is the right person to help us get there.” Athletics Director Brandon Martin praised the hire: "We wanted someone with a championship pedigree... Coach Turgeon is the answer and best fit for the job."
Community backing was evident. Kathy Nelson of the Greater Kansas City Sports Commission hailed it as a city milestone. City Manager Mario Vasquez called it a homecoming, gifting a framed Norman Rockwell painting evoking Kansas City spirit. Chancellor Agrawal presented Turgeon a Walt Disney print of the UMKC kangaroo. Plans call for returning men's basketball to Municipal Auditorium. Alumni like Terry Dunn called for involvement: "What I'm seeing is a number of people stepping forward donating time, talent, treasure."
The event ended with a reception, fueling optimism for UMKC basketball amid the university's rising profile in research and athletics.
