Cincinnati native becomes the 8th head coach in the program's Division I history.

Jeff Walker, Sports Writer

Chris Mack, one of just 19 coaches in college basketball history to lead their team to a No. 1 ranking within the first two years at their school, has agreed to a five-year contract as the new men's basketball head coach at the College of Charleston, Director of Athletics Matt Roberts announced Tuesday.

"We are excited to add Chris, his wife Christie, and their children to the College of Charleston family.  Charleston men's basketball has a tradition of competitive excellence spanning well over five decades," said Roberts. 

"When looking for our next leader, we focused on attracting an individual that is a proven winner and shares our vision of championship basketball.  Chris Mack will undoubtedly continue the high-level of success that our students, alumni, donors, and community deserve."

Mack, whose teams have participated in the NCAA Tournament in nine of his 12 seasons as a head coach, returns to coaching collegiate basketball after a two-year hiatus. His 259 victories were the 12th most amassed by a coach in their first 11 seasons.

"We are excited to have such a high-level talent step in and lead our storied men's basketball program," said College of Charleston President Andrew Hsu. "I know Coach Mack will find success here, carrying on the winning traditions of Coaches John Kresse, Bobby Cremins, Earl Grant and Pat Kelsey."

The Cincinnati native becomes the 8th head coach in the program's Division I history.