Ray Martin steps down as Men’s Basketball Coach

Long Island men’s basketball coach Ray Martin has announced his resignation at the downtown Brooklyn campus effective immediately. Martin’s announcement comes after nine games in which the Blackbirds remain winless.

“Unfortunately, things have not turned out the way I had hoped,” Martin said. “I wish the players and coaching staff much success as they enter the most important part of the season. On behalf of my family and myself we thank the LIU administration and athletic community for all they have done for us.”

The Long Island City, NY native recorded 30-61 record over three-plus years, including Northeast Conference Tournament berths in 1999 and 2001. His most successful season came a season ago when he guided the Blackbirds to 12 conference wins and a fourth-place finish.

Martin’s career has spanned 28 years as a player and coach and was involved in two of the most memorable games in college basketball history. He enjoyed a tremendous run as an assistant to Jim Valvano at North Carolina St. from 1980-88. In his eight seasons, the Wolfpack claimed two ACC titles and the national championship in 1983.

He was a four-year letterwinner for coach Digger Phelps at Notre Dame from 1973-77. He was a key member of the team that ended UCLA’s 88-game winning streak in 1974 and was a team captain as a senior in 1976-77. In his four years, the Irish went 90-26 and earned four trips to the NCAA Tournament.

“Ray helped turn this program around in many areas and we thank him for his efforts,” director of athletics John Suarez said. “He is a fine individual and he will be missed.”

Martin was the 10th coach in the history of the program that began in 1928-29. Assistant coach Ron Brown will take over as head coach on an interim basis. A national search for Martin’s successor will begin immediately.