NSU Athletics
Don Vieth, Assistant Athletics Director for Strategic Communications
TAHLEQUAH – Northeastern State announced today that Mark Downey has stepped down from his position as head men’s basketball coach. He will be leaving the school to take over the program at Arkansas Tech.
“I want to thank Coach Downey for his work in the last three years at Northeastern State,” said Interim Director of Athletics Matt Cochran. “Since arriving here he guided the program through a resurgence and left it in a strong position in the MIAA. I want to wish him and his family the best in their return to Arkansas Tech.”
Downey recently completed his third season at NSU where he held a 40-46 overall mark and led the RiverHawks to the MIAA Tournament twice. He guided the program with 32 wins in the last two seasons, surpassing the overall program win total by four from 2015 to 2018.
Northeastern State opened the 2019-20 season with a 9-1 mark and entered the NABC National Top-25 poll for the first time since 2013. The RiverHawks finished the season with an 18-11 record and fifth the MIAA standings.
“I wish Coach Downey great success at ATU,” said Northeastern State President Dr. Steve Turner. “During his time at NSU, he was instrumental in efforts to re-connect our Men’s Basketball team to our community and alumni. He and his family will be missed on campus and in our community.”
Downey previously was the head coach at ATU from 2006-10.
Northeastern State will begin a national search for the next head men’s basketball coach immediately.