The Stephen F. Austin University (SFA) has recently made a significant decision regarding its men's basketball program. In an official statement released on Wednesday evening, the university announced that Head Coach Kyle Keller has been relieved of his duties due to the team's underwhelming start in conference play. This move comes as SFA looks to regain its former glory after a challenging period. The associate head coach, Tony Jasick, will now take over as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. The university plans to conduct a nationwide search for a new permanent leader for the team.

Michael McBroom, the director of athletics at SFA, expressed gratitude for Keller's contributions over the past nine seasons. During this time, the team achieved several memorable victories that have become part of the university's sporting history. One of the most notable achievements occurred in 2019 when the Lumberjacks defeated the top-ranked Duke University, gaining national recognition. However, despite these highlights, recent performance has not met expectations, particularly with a disappointing record in Southland Conference matches.

Keller's tenure saw both highs and lows. After taking the helm, he led the team through various challenges, including navigating the disruptions caused by the global pandemic, which halted the 2020 season just as SFA was poised for potential NCAA Tournament participation. Despite these obstacles, Keller's leadership contributed significantly to the university's basketball legacy. His departure marks a pivotal moment as SFA seeks to rebuild and strengthen its competitive edge in collegiate sports.

Moving forward, the appointment of Tony Jasick as interim head coach signals a transitional phase for the team. With his extensive experience within the program, Jasick is well-positioned to guide the players through the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, the university's commitment to finding a new head coach reflects its dedication to restoring the program's success. Fans and supporters will be watching closely as SFA embarks on this next chapter in its storied basketball history.