Former Coppin State head men’s basketball coach John Bates passed away in Ellicott City, Md. on Wednesday evening at the age of 77. Bates has the second-most wins in Coppin State history and led the Eagles to the 1976 NAIA Championships.

John Bates led Coppin State to its only national championship when he guided the men’s basketball team to the NAIA Championship in 1976. The Eagles compiled a 39-2 record during the 1975-76 season, which culminated with a 96-91 victory over Henderson State in the championship game. He led the Eagles to a 32-3 record the following season and compiled a 209-121 overall record in 12 seasons at Coppin State. He ranks second all-time in victories and led CSU to the Potomac Intercollegiate Conference Championship in 1974-75, 1975-76 and 1976-77.

Arrangements for his funeral and viewing will be announced at a later time.

http://coppinstatesports.com/news/2015/12/18/MBB_1218153025.aspx

Photo Courtesy Coppin State Athletics