The Lake Superior State University (LSSU) Department of Athletics has announced a momentous 10-year contract extension for Head Men’s Basketball Coach Steve Hettinga, ensuring his continued leadership of the Lakers through 2035. The agreement, announced by LSSU Athletics Director Tory Lindley, solidifies Hettinga’s place as the longest-tenured and winningest coach in program history.
“Coach Hettinga has built an elite standard at LSSU and continues to elevate our men’s basketball program to new heights,” said Lindley. “His commitment to excellence, player development, retention and academic success makes him an invaluable leader for our student-athletes and the entire Laker community. This extension reflects our confidence in his vision, his passion for this University and our commitment to sustained success in Laker basketball.”
Coach Hettinga offered his gratitude, “I am thankful for the commitment that Tory and President Travis have demonstrated to me and the future of our program. Our goal is to continue to bring in high quality, hardworking student-athletes who best represent the values and pride of Laker basketball. There is truly no place I’d rather be, for the rest of my career, than LSSU.”
Having recently completed his 18th season at the helm in 2024-25, Hettinga has amassed an impressive 320-200 overall record at LSSU, including a 222-142 mark in GLIAC play. Under his leadership, the Lakers have achieved historic success, recording two of the three winningest seasons in program history, including a program-record 30 victories in 2024-25.
During his tenure, Coach Hettinga has guided the Lakers to three GLIAC championships and six NCAA Tournament appearances. The program has thrived on the national stage, advancing to back-to-back Sweet Sixteens in 2024 and 2025, the Elite 8 in 2025, with a flawless 6-0 record in opening-round matchups. His efforts have earned him GLIAC Coach of the Year honors twice, further cementing his reputation as one of the premier coaches in collegiate basketball.
Hettinga’s impact extends beyond the wins and championships. Under his leadership, LSSU has developed elite talent, including two GLIAC Defensive Players of the Year, 23 All-GLIAC First Team selections, 13 All-GLIAC Second Team selections, and 12 GLIAC All-Defensive Team selections. His emphasis on personal development, skill development and selflessness has created an environment of sustained excellence within the program.
With this long-term commitment, LSSU ensures that Coach Hettinga’s leadership will continue to guide the Lakers toward championship contention, fostering a legacy of success for years to come.
