Mike McGarvey taking over as head coach at Lafayette

Mike McGarvey, who spent the last month as acting head coach, has been officially given the reins at Lafayette, the school announced on Wednesday. McGarvey takes over for Mike Jordan, who was placed on paid leave in late February pending an investigation. Today’s announcement confirmed that Jordan was out following that outside investigation, but did not provide any further details.

“Coach McGarvey is a first-class leader who is deeply dedicated to the College’s powerful combination of excellent academics and athletics,” AD Sherryta Freeman said in a statement. “Given what we’ve already witnessed with him as acting head coach, I’m excited for his leadership and to see him continue what he started.”

McGarvey came to Lafayette this past offseason as associate head coach and led the Leopards to a 2-3 record to end the 2022-23 season, including a surprise run to the Patriot League Tournament final that left them one win away from the Big Dance. He was previously the head coach at D-III Lycoming for four years, going 53-36 overall.

“I am thrilled to become Lafayette’s next head coach,” McGarvey said. “Lafayette is a truly special place, and we have a terrific group of young men with whom I’m eager to continue our championship level efforts both on and off the basketball court.”

As for Jordan, he leaves the program with a 9-20 record in less than one season at the helm. He was hired one year ago after spending nine seasons at Colgate. The Philly-native and former Ivy League POY for Penn had this to say on social media:

“I am terribly disappointed by Lafayette’s decision and will take some time to consider my options. My immediate intent is to continue to pursue my career as a basketball coach.”

credit to Lafayette Athletics for the image