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Kevin Mackey: Beloved Coach and NCAA Upset Legend Dies at 80

11/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Kevin Mackey, the former Cleveland State men's basketball coach, died at age 80.
He led Cleveland State to a historic 1986 NCAA Tournament upset when the No. 14 seed defeated No. 3 Indiana.
From 1983 to 1990, Mackey coached Cleveland State to a 142-69 record.
He battled crack cocaine and alcohol addiction, was arrested in 1990, and later became a scout for the Indiana Pacers, staying sober for 35 years.

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Story summary

Kevin Mackey, the former Cleveland State men's basketball coach, died at age 80.
He led Cleveland State to a historic 1986 NCAA Tournament upset when the No. 14 seed defeated No. 3 Indiana.
From 1983 to 1990, Mackey coached Cleveland State to a 142-69 record.
He battled crack cocaine and alcohol addiction, was arrested in 1990, and later became a scout for the Indiana Pacers, staying sober for 35 years.