Mark Daigneault

While attending the University of Connecticut, Daigneault served as a student manager for the UConn Huskies from 2003 to 2007 under Jim Calhoun.

After graduating with a sports management degree, Daigneault became the assistant to the head coach which involved scouting and working with players off the court.

In his final season, Daigneault led the Blue to its third consecutive division championship and matched the franchise-record again with 34 wins.

[9] After the 2019–20 season, the Thunder and head coach Billy Donovan mutually agreed to part ways as the team transitioned into a rebuilding phase.

“Over my six years in Oklahoma City I've developed a deep commitment to the organization and a care for what is truly a special community that I call home.

I want to thank Mr. Bennett, Sam and the entire organization for the opportunity, and I'm grateful to all the coaches, staff and especially players who have helped me throughout my career.

[12]During the Thunder's coaching search, general manager Sam Presti was enthusiastic regarding Daigneault's track record in the Thunder organization, including "connecting with players, teaching the game and making the kind of short- and longer-term adjustments that are crucial for a franchise that is transitioning out of playoff contention and toward a younger, developmental roster.

However, the Thunder finished with a 24–58 record, tallying their second consecutive losing season since the franchise moved to Oklahoma City.

After exceeding preseason expectations and a play-in appearance, Daigneault was nominated for the NBA Coach of the Year Award.

[15] Prior to the start of the 2023–24 season, the Thunder announced that head coach Daigneault signed a multi-year contract extension.

Daigneault's father, Rick, is a 1980 graduate of the College of the Holy Cross, and was a member of the Crusader baseball team.

Daigneault was also steered into enrolling at the University of Connecticut by his former high school basketball coach Steve Dubzinski.