Florida Atlantic coach Dusty May sets sights on 2027 Final Four in Detroit

May celebrates 2026 national title but already has his eyes on the next big prize.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:23pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold brushstrokes in neon colors, capturing the raw emotion and passion of a college basketball coach celebrating a national title victory.The unbridled joy and intensity of a championship-winning college basketball coach, already dreaming of the next big stage.Indianapolis Today

After winning the 2026 NCAA men's basketball national championship with Florida Atlantic University, head coach Dusty May is already looking ahead to the 2027 Final Four tournament, which will be held in Detroit. May expressed his excitement about the prospect of coaching in the Motor City, a city he believes will provide an electric atmosphere for the marquee college basketball event.

Why it matters

Coaches in high-profile college sports programs are known for their intense focus and drive, often looking far beyond the current season. May's comments demonstrate the relentless ambition that fuels the top programs in men's college basketball, as they constantly strive to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

The details

In the aftermath of Florida Atlantic's national title victory over UConn on April 6, 2026, May expressed his desire to return to the Final Four in 2027, which will be held in Detroit. The coach praised the city's passionate sports fans and the historic significance of the event, saying he was already counting down the days until the tournament tips off in two years' time.

  • Florida Atlantic won the 2026 NCAA men's basketball national championship on April 6, 2026.
  • The 2027 NCAA Final Four will be held in Detroit.

The players

Dusty May

The head coach of the Florida Atlantic University men's basketball team, who led the Owls to the 2026 national championship.

Dan Hurley

The head coach of the University of Connecticut men's basketball team, which lost to Florida Atlantic in the 2026 national title game.

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What they’re saying

“Get me to 2027 Final Four in Detroit. That's the goal now.”

— Dusty May, Head Coach, Florida Atlantic University

What’s next

May and the Florida Atlantic Owls will look to defend their national title in the 2026-27 season, with the ultimate goal of returning to the Final Four in Detroit in 2027.

The takeaway

Dusty May's singular focus on the 2027 Final Four in Detroit exemplifies the relentless drive and ambition of top college basketball coaches, who are always looking ahead to the next big challenge, even after achieving the ultimate prize.