Remembering Kevin Mackey: Cleveland State’s Legendary Coach
Cleveland is mourning the loss of Kevin Mackey, the legendary Cleveland State men’s basketball coach, who passed away Tuesday at the age of 80 from an apparent heart attack. Mackey famously led the Vikings to one of college basketball’s most iconic upsets in 1986, etching his name into the city’s sports history with a “magic carpet ride” season.
A Historic Run with the Cleveland State Vikings
Kevin Mackey made an indelible mark on college basketball and in the hearts of Cleveland sports fans during his tenure as head coach for Cleveland State. His most celebrated achievement came on March 14, 1986, when his No. 14 seed Cleveland State Vikings pulled off a stunning 83-79 victory against the No. 3 seed Indiana Hoosiers in the NCAA tournament. This marked the first time a Division I men’s basketball coach won an NCAA tournament game with a “Cinderella” team. The Hoosiers, a heavily favored squad, were coached by Hall of Famer Bob Knight and boasted All-American Steve Alford.
Under Mackey’s guidance, and led by star guard Ken “Mouse” McFadden along with forwards Clinton Smith and Clinton Ransey, the Vikings continued their improbable journey by defeating Saint Joseph’s in the second round. Their incredible run nearly extended to the Elite Eight, falling short by a single point in a 71-70 loss to Navy, decided by a last-second basket from David Robinson. Mackey often referred to that unforgettable 1985-86 season as a “magic carpet ride.” He coached CSU from 1984-90, compiling an impressive record of 142-69, with the 1986 season being his sole NCAA Tournament appearance and conference championship with the Vikings.
| 1986 NCAA Tournament Highlight | Seed | Key Opponent / Player | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Round vs. Indiana Hoosiers | #14 vs. #3 | Hall of Famer Bob Knight, Steve Alford | Cleveland State Win (83-79) |
| Second Round vs. Saint Joseph’s | #14 vs. #6 | Cleveland State Win | |
| Sweet Sixteen vs. Navy | #14 vs. #7 | David Robinson | Navy Win (71-70) |
A Dramatic Turn and Path to Recovery
Mackey’s coaching career at Cleveland State took a dramatic and unforeseen turn in the summer of 1990. Shortly after signing a lucrative two-year, $350,000-a-year contract extension, an incident on July 13, 1990, involving nine hours spent in a crack house, was reported to Cleveland police and a local television station. The ensuing media coverage, with footage repeatedly broadcast, abruptly ended his college basketball coaching career.
Despite this public setback, Mackey embarked on a journey of recovery and redemption. He underwent substance abuse treatment with former NBA player John Lucas. Following his recovery, Mackey continued to contribute to basketball, coaching minor league teams before legendary player and Indiana Pacers president of basketball operations, Larry Bird, hired him as a scout.
Before Cleveland State
Prior to his influential period at Cleveland State, Kevin Mackey served as an assistant coach under Tom Davis at Boston College. During this time, he demonstrated his keen eye for talent, recruiting future NBA players John Bagley and Jay Murphy.
A Legacy of Sobriety
At the time of his passing, Kevin Mackey had achieved a remarkable 35 years of sobriety, a testament to his strength and commitment to overcoming personal struggles. This aspect of his life underscores a profound resilience that followed his earlier triumphs and challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kevin Mackey
- When did Kevin Mackey pass away?
Kevin Mackey died on Tuesday, November 12, 2025, at the age of 80. - What was Kevin Mackey’s most famous coaching achievement?
He led the No. 14 seed Cleveland State Vikings to upset the No. 3 seed Indiana Hoosiers in the 1986 NCAA Tournament, a historic “Cinderella” moment in college basketball. - What led to the end of his Cleveland State coaching career?
His career at CSU ended dramatically in 1990 following an incident in a crack house that garnered significant media attention. - What did Kevin Mackey do after leaving Cleveland State?
He underwent substance abuse treatment, coached minor league basketball, and later became a scout for the Indiana Pacers, hired by Larry Bird. - How long had Kevin Mackey been sober at the time of his death?
He had been sober for 35 years.
Kevin Mackey’s story is a powerful reminder that complex legacies often contain both moments of soaring triumph and profound personal challenges. His ability to inspire an underdog team to greatness, and later to overcome significant personal obstacles, leaves a lasting impression on the Cleveland community and beyond.
Cleveland State Mourns Legendary Coach Kevin Mackey
