Ball State Parts Ways With Michael Lewis After Third Straight Losing Season

Ball State has fired men’s basketball head coach Michael Lewis after three consecutive losing seasons, the university announced following the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign. The decision comes in the wake of a 12-19 finish and the team’s failure to qualify for the Mid-American Conference (MAC) tournament.

Lewis, who took over the program three years ago, struggled to build consistent success during his tenure. In the 2025-26 season, Ball State’s record slipped to 12 wins against 19 losses, marking the third straight year the Cardinals finished below .500. The team’s performance this year also meant missing out on the MAC tournament, a key benchmark for postseason play and a significant disappointment for the program and its supporters.

• 2025-26 season record: 12-19
• Missed MAC tournament qualification
• Three consecutive losing seasons under Lewis

Lewis’s tenure began with high hopes, but the program was unable to generate the momentum needed to return to its former competitive level in the conference. With the MAC tournament serving as a crucial goal for many mid-major programs, Ball State’s absence this year underscored the team’s ongoing struggles on the court.

The university’s decision to move on from Lewis signals a desire to reset the men’s basketball program and pursue a new direction. The search for a new head coach is expected to begin immediately as Ball State aims to rejuvenate its program and return to relevance in the MAC. Fans and alumni will be watching closely as the Cardinals seek a leader capable of reversing recent fortunes and restoring postseason ambitions.