The 2025 survey of college basketball coaches reveals that Painter, Hurley, and McDermott are regarded as the top X's and O's coaches, collectively earning 53% of the vote and recognized as leaders in strategic coaching.

Matt Painter of Purdue received the highest individual vote share at 19%, with Dan Hurley of UConn close behind at 18%, and Greg McDermott of Creighton at 16%, indicating a strong peer consensus on their coaching excellence.

McDermott is praised for his team's precise offense, in-game adjustments, and his rare skill in disguising play calls, making his teams particularly difficult to prepare against.

Painter is lauded for his innovative offensive schemes and his talent for developing overlooked players into top performers, exemplified by Zach Edey and Braden Smith.

Purdue's coaching staff and players are highly regarded, with high expectations that Purdue will be the top team this season and a strong contender to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

Hurley is recognized for his strategic scouting, effective half-court offense, and in-game adjustments, especially with a talented point guard executing complex plays.

Painter's reputation is further strengthened by his success in player development, turning lower-ranked recruits into award winners despite Purdue's lack of top-tier recruiting classes.

The CBS Sports annual Candid Coaches survey, which included over 100 college basketball coaches, highlights a competitive race among the sport’s top tacticians for the title of best X's and O's coach in 2025.