In this episode of Linch with Leader, Mike sits down with former college basketball coach and current ESPN & SEC basketball analyst, Jimmy Dykes.
Jimmy Dykes first joined ESPN at the start of the 1995-96 men’s college basketball season as a game and studio analyst, and is entering his 20th season with the company, after serving as the women’s head basketball coach at the University of Arkansas from 2014-2017. He led the Razorbacks to one NCAA tournament appearance and finished with an overall record of 43-49.
Prior to his career with ESPN, Dykes played three years at the University of Arkansas, playing for the legendary coach Eddie Sutton. After his playing career ended, he went on to be a graduate assistant for Coach Sutton. Dykes’ coaching career includes a number of assistant coaching stints from Sacramento State to Oklahoma State. He then spent three years as an NBA scout prior to joining ESPN in the mid 90s. He is the author of the challenging book, “The Film Doesn’t Lie” which will challenge readers to look at their lives and see if their walk and talk match up. Every leader will be better for their time in this book! Dykes is also a highly sought after motivational speaker for companies, organizations, sports teams, and faith based groups across the country, challenging audiences to a higher level of accountability and tenacious faith.
Coach Dykes and his family still make their home in Arkansas.