Kent State Golden Flashes men’s basketball

The Kent State Golden Flashes men’s basketball team is the intercollegiate men’s basketball program representing Kent State University. The school competes in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in Division I of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The Golden Flashes are currently coached by Rob Senderoff, who has held that position since 2011.

Kent State first fielded a varsity basketball team during 1920–21, competing as an independent before joining the Ohio Athletic Conference for three seasons from 1923 to 1926 and again from 1929 to 1932. After more than 30 years with no college basketball at KSU, it returned when then athletic director Laing Kennedy restarted it as a club sport prior to 1970–71 season; after playing two additional seasons independently ,they joined Division II Midwest Intercollegiate Volleyball Association in 1972 and were promoted up to NCAA Divsion I level prior 1975 season becoming members of Mid-American Conference . They won both their first MAC regular season title and tournament championship in 1977 under head coach Bob Lindsay. Several coaches followed until Gary Waters was hired prior 1986 -87 campaign; he led them back into national limelight thanks his teams winning four consecutive regular seaon titles between 1996 and 2000 while reaching second round of 1997 NCAA Tournament where they lost against eventual champion Arizona Wildcats 58-43.. During following decade they managed only one tourney appearance 2002 when they made Sweet Sixteen losing there against Pittsburgh Panthers 59-55 . Following this success current coach Rob Senderoff took over helm leading them next year towards another NCCA bid but also suffering several disappointing campaigns afterwards including last 2012 taking place which ended with 13 victories just above lowest record ever set 23 years ago 11 wins 1989/90 . Despite all ups & downs thier overall profile profited significantly due strong performances within mid 90’s making now total post seanson appearances six out eleven times being part MAC conference play

In January 2008 former player Jim Christian signed on become new head coach signing five year contract worth $500 000 ; however despite having some individual successes most notably capturing 2009 MAC East divisional crown he never managed bring any real improvements long term level leaving university staff decide not renew his deal 2010 .. Since then through hiring ex assistant Jeff Boals 2013 till dismissal 2014 university changed its coaching strategy appointing interim managers instead permanent ones eventually ending up promoting recently arrived Rob Sendeof whom helped rebuild squad bringing back previous glory days thus qualifying two successive tournaments 2017&2018 respectively finishing each time at same stage Round 32 getting eliminated by UCLA Bruins 78 – 62 2018