In a significant shift for the University of New Orleans baseball program, longtime head coach Blake Dean has announced his departure, marking the end of an era that began in 2016. Dean's decision to leave was driven by a desire to pursue opportunities outside of baseball. Dax Norris, previously the pitching coach, will assume the role of head coach for the upcoming 2025 season. This transition comes amid challenges faced by the team, including player transfers through the NCAA portal system. Despite these changes, the university remains committed to maintaining its competitive edge in collegiate baseball.
A New Chapter Begins for UNO Baseball
In the heart of New Orleans, a city renowned for its passion for sports, the University of New Orleans (UNO) baseball team is preparing for a transformative period. After nearly seven years at the helm, Blake Dean has decided to step down from his position as head coach. According to official statements, Dean chose to leave to explore new career avenues outside of baseball. His tenure at UNO saw an impressive overall record of 256 wins against 220 losses and one tie. The Privateers also achieved notable success within the Southland Conference, where they posted a 122-113 record and reached the championship game twice.
The news of Dean's departure was first reported by local journalist Sharief Ishaq of WDSU. Subsequently, Kendall Rogers of D1Baseball noted that this move was not entirely unexpected, given the recent challenges the program has faced with player transfers. Among those who recently left the team is star outfielder Mitchell Sanford, who transferred to Ole Miss after previously playing for LSU. Sanford's return to the SEC adds another layer of complexity to the roster changes.
As UNO looks ahead to the 2025 season, which kicks off on February 14th against West Georgia, Dax Norris steps into the spotlight as the new head coach. With a wealth of experience in coaching pitchers, Norris brings a fresh perspective to the team. His appointment signals a new chapter for the Privateers, one that balances continuity with innovation.
Dean expressed deep gratitude in his farewell statement, acknowledging the university and various supporters for their unwavering commitment during his time at UNO. His legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the program, setting a high standard for future coaches and players alike.
From a journalist's viewpoint, this change represents more than just a coaching transition. It highlights the evolving nature of college athletics, where external factors like career opportunities and player mobility can significantly influence a program's trajectory. As UNO baseball embarks on this new journey under Norris's leadership, it serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the competitive world of collegiate sports.