LSU Eunice head basketball coach Michael Bari has announced that he will be leaving the program in July to head up his own sports management company.
Bari served as the Lady Bengal head coach for nine seasons and amassed a 154-113 record. He joined LSU Eunice in 2004 after coaching at Colorado Northwest Community College, Gannon University, Alderson Broadus College, Penn State University-Behrend College and East Stroudsburg University.
“I want to thank Coach Bari for all he has done for the Lady Bengal Basketball program over his tenure here,” LSU Eunice Athletic Director Jeff Willis said.
“He has worked extremely hard throughout his time here and has been a great ambassador for LSU Eunice. There is no doubt that the women’s basketball program is in better shape now after having Coach Bari be our coach. We wish Coach Bari luck in all of his future endeavors.”
Bari focused not only to recruit talented athletes, but also excellent students. During his nine seasons, his student-athletes continually posted high grade point averages. Following the 2008-09 season, and again after the 2011-12 and 2012-13 seasons, his teams were honored for their hard work in the classroom, being named a National Academic All-American team by the NJCAA.
Bari collected his 150th victory with the Lady Bengals during this past season, with an 88-72 win over Dodge City Community College on December 1, 2012.
On February 5th, 2008, Bari notched his 100th win with the Lady Bengals after defeating Delgado Community College 81-69.
On the court, Bari’s teams reached the District finals in six of his nine seasons, and reached the final four of the NJCAA National Championship Tournament in 2007.
“My time at LSU Eunice has been very rewarding, as I have been able to work with great people over my nine seasons. I’m extremely happy with the support of not only the campus, but also the community, and appreciate everything everyone has done for the program and my family. We cherish the friendships that we have made, and will be staying in Eunice as we now consider this home,” Bari said.
Bari opened Juggernaut Sports Agency and has already begun working as an agent for athletes from around the globe.
The search to replace Bari will begin immediately.
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