Butler Coach Thad Matta Celebrates 500th Career Win

Matta reflects on milestone after victory over Georgetown Hoyas

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Butler Bulldogs men's basketball coach Thad Matta reached a major milestone in his career, earning his 500th career coaching victory in a win over the Georgetown Hoyas. Matta, who is in his fourth season back with Butler, has seen his career come full circle after previously coaching at Ohio State and Xavier. Despite the accomplishment, Matta said he hasn't had much time to reflect on the achievement due to his team's busy schedule.

Why it matters

Matta's 500th win is a significant accomplishment in his storied coaching career, which has included successful stints at multiple Division I programs. The milestone highlights Matta's longevity and success in leading college basketball teams over the past two decades.

The details

In the 93-89 victory over Georgetown, five Butler players scored in double figures, led by junior Finley Bizjack's 19 points. Two days later, Matta earned his 501st career win as Butler defeated his former team, Xavier, 80-75 on Senior Day. Matta was named Big Ten Coach of the Year three times while at Ohio State, and he led the Buckeyes to nine NCAA Tournament appearances, including two Final Four runs.

  • On February 22, 2026, Matta earned his 500th career coaching win.
  • On February 24, 2026, Matta earned his 501st career coaching win.

The players

Thad Matta

The head coach of the Butler Bulldogs men's basketball team, who has over 500 career wins as a collegiate head coach.

Finley Bizjack

A junior player for the Butler Bulldogs who led the team with 19 points in the win over Georgetown.

Michael Ajayl

A player for the Butler Bulldogs who scored 16 points in the win over Georgetown.

Jamie Kalser Jr.

A player for the Butler Bulldogs who scored 16 points in the win over Georgetown.

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What they’re saying

“It's amazing to think that you left the gymnasium 500 times happy.”

— Thad Matta, Head Coach, Butler Bulldogs (TNT Sports U.S.)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Thad Matta's 500th career coaching win is a testament to his longevity and success in leading college basketball programs over the past two decades. The milestone highlights Matta's ability to guide teams to the NCAA Tournament, including deep runs at Ohio State, and his return to Butler where he began his head coaching career.