Mark Gottfried
Biography of Mark Gottfried
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Mark Frederick Gottfried
Common Aliases: Mark Gottfried
Birth and Death Dates
Birth Date: January 20, 1964
Death Date: N/A
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession(s): College Basketball Coach, Former Basketball Player
Early Life and Background
Mark Frederick Gottfried was born on January 20, 1964, in Crestline, Ohio, but he grew up in the basketball-rich state of Alabama. His father, Joe Gottfried, was a prominent figure in collegiate athletics, serving as the athletic director at the University of South Alabama. This familial connection to sports provided Mark with an early exposure to the world of athletics, particularly basketball, which would become his lifelong passion.
Gottfried attended the University of Alabama, where he played as a guard for the Crimson Tide basketball team from 1984 to 1987. During his collegiate playing career, he was known for his sharp shooting and leadership on the court. His time as a player laid the foundation for his future career in coaching, as he developed a deep understanding of the game and a keen sense of strategy.
Major Accomplishments
Mark Gottfried's coaching career began as an assistant coach at UCLA, where he was part of the staff that led the Bruins to a national championship in 1995. This experience at a top-tier program helped him hone his coaching skills and gain valuable insights into managing a successful team.
In 1998, Gottfried took on the role of head coach at Murray State University. During his tenure, he led the Racers to two Ohio Valley Conference titles and two NCAA Tournament appearances, establishing himself as a promising young coach. His success at Murray State caught the attention of his alma mater, the University of Alabama, where he became the head coach in 1998.
At Alabama, Gottfried revitalized the basketball program, leading the Crimson Tide to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including a memorable run to the Elite Eight in 2004. His ability to recruit talented players and develop them into cohesive units was a hallmark of his coaching style.
Notable Works or Actions
After his successful stint at Alabama, Gottfried continued his coaching career at North Carolina State University from 2011 to 2017. Under his leadership, the Wolfpack made four NCAA Tournament appearances, including two Sweet Sixteen runs. His tenure at NC State was marked by his ability to compete in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and his knack for pulling off upsets against higher-ranked teams.
Gottfried's coaching philosophy emphasized an up-tempo style of play, focusing on offensive efficiency and aggressive defense. His teams were known for their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, traits that were often attributed to his motivational skills and strategic acumen.
Impact and Legacy
Mark Gottfried's impact on college basketball is significant, particularly in the programs he led to success. His ability to turn around struggling teams and guide them to national prominence is a testament to his coaching prowess. He is remembered for his contributions to the game, both as a player and a coach, and for his role in developing young athletes into professional players.
Gottfried's legacy is also marked by his influence on the coaching community. Many of his former assistants and players have gone on to successful coaching careers, spreading his basketball philosophy and approach to new generations.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Mark Gottfried is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful perspectives on the game of basketball and his motivational leadership style. His quotes often reflect his deep understanding of the sport and his ability to inspire players to achieve their best. Whether discussing strategy, teamwork, or overcoming adversity, Gottfried's words resonate with coaches, players, and fans alike.
His career, marked by both triumphs and challenges, offers valuable lessons in perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence. As a result, Mark Gottfried remains a respected figure in the world of college basketball, and his contributions continue to be celebrated by those who appreciate the intricacies and excitement of the game.
Quotes by Mark Gottfried
Mark Gottfried's insights on:
We have a great chance to be an NCAA basketball tournament team if we take care of business night in and night out in our league. Records are deceiving. You can schedule your way into a 10-1 or 11-0 record. I have learned that you’re not going to trick the NCAA tournament selection committee.
Sometimes the game comes out to one shot, and I know he'll be thinking about that shot all night long. It's just part of the game.
I've been asked that question a lot. But I think things work out the way they're supposed to work out.
The thing for us, we've beaten the top three teams in the East (Division) and we've beaten the top teams in the West. Nobody else in our league, I think, has done that.
I've tried to explain to (Davidson) the advantages of him as a senior here, which I think would far outweigh any gamble. He's got a chance to be one of the top big men in the nation.
I sensed we got a little tired. They have a lot more bodies to play. I think they were a little fresher than we were. That's who we are right now.
There's no magic wand you can wave over your team. I know the one response you cannot have is to get down and get disappointed. I don't think our team will do that. Injuries are part of the game. When I was in Kuwait coaching, there was a sign that said 'Adapt and overcome.' That's what we are going to have to do.
There's still things within our team that we're trying to figure out. We need to play better.
Felix is the only guy on the team that can make the pass. We practiced it and had guys throwing it all over the gym.
First of all it's going to be a tremendous challenge. They are ranked third in the RPI and eighth in the AP. They are very underrated and will pose problems for us. On the other hand, our guys are very excited about having the chance to upset a team that is highly ranked.