Former North Park Coach Dan McCarrell Honored at SCB Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Dan McCarrell: A Legacy of Excellence in College Basketball

On October 31, 2025, the Small College Basketball (SCB) Hall of Fame will welcome a notable new member: Dan McCarrell, the former head men's basketball coach at North Park University. His induction is a celebration of his remarkable career, characterized by dedication, leadership, and an impressive collection of achievements.

Dan McCarrell's coaching journey began at North Park College, where he led the basketball program to extraordinary heights. His tenure spanned 17 seasons during which he amassed a stellar 295–159 record and guided the team through six NCAA tournaments, achieving a remarkable 17–4 record in tournament play. Under his leadership, North Park claimed three consecutive national championships from 1978 to 1980, an achievement only paralleled by the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles.

A beloved figure in the basketball community, McCarrell's coaching prowess earned him the National Association of Basketball Coaches Coach of the Year award three times (1978-80). His contributions to the sport did not go unnoticed; in 1985, he was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, followed by his induction into North Park's Viking Hall of Fame in 1988. Additionally, he earned the title of NCAA Division III Coach of the Decade for the 1970s, further cementing his legacy in college basketball history.

Among his notable achievements, McCarrell coached nine All-Americans and had four players drafted into the NBA, showcasing his ability to develop talent that could succeed at higher levels. John Born, the athletics director at North Park, remarked on McCarrell's lasting impact on the sport, stating, "His impact on the game and the players he has mentored is immeasurable. Being inducted into the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor recognizing his extraordinary contributions to the sport."

Current head coach Edwind McGhee also expressed gratitude for McCarrell's influence, saying, "Anytime we talk about the history and tradition of this program, Coach McCarrell and his teams are our gold standard. This is a well-deserved honor for him and his family."

What makes this induction particularly special is that it takes place amidst a gathering of fellow accomplished athletes, as McCarrell will be honored alongside eleven other inductees in the Class of 2025. The ceremony will unfold at Florida Southern College, a fitting venue for recognizing the incredible contributions of these individuals to small college basketball.

McCarrell's journey is not just about victories and accolades; it embodies a commitment to nurturing young athletes and creating a positive and supportive environment for their growth. His impact can be seen in the lives of countless players who have passed through the North Park program, many of whom attribute their success to his mentorship.

As Dan McCarrell prepares to take this momentous step in his legacy, the basketball community looks on with admiration. His dedication to North Park University and to American collegiate basketball set a benchmark for coaches who aspire to influence young athletes positively. This induction is more than a personal accolade; it is a reminder of what can be achieved through hard work, integrity, and a passion for the game.

In closing, McCarrell's story is one of inspiring leadership and exceptional coaching. As he steps onto the stage at the SCB Hall of Fame induction ceremony, it will mark another chapter in a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire others in the world of sports and beyond.