Michael Cooper, legendary former Los Angeles Lakers player and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer, has been appointed as the new head men's basketball coach at Cal State LA. This marks Cooper's transition from associate head coach to head coach, following a season in which he helped the Golden Eagles achieve a program-record 24 wins and their first California Collegiate Athletic Association Tournament championship. His introduction was celebrated by a large audience of former teammates and the local community, reflecting his strong ties to Los Angeles and commitment to student-athlete mentorship.

By the Numbers
  • Michael Cooper won five NBA championships with the Lakers during the “Showtime” era.
  • Led the Golden Eagles to a record 24 wins in the 2023-24 season.
  • Achieved a 230-158 coaching record in 12 years as a WNBA head coach.
State of Play
  • Cooper has already established a rapport with Cal State LA athletes, offering support across teams.
  • His experience in coaching spans the WNBA, NBA D-League, and NCAA, enhancing the program's profile.
What's Next

With Cooper at the helm, Cal State LA aims to build on its recent success by fostering a winning culture and mentoring future leaders. Expect to see strategies that leverage his championship experience to elevate the men's basketball program.

Bottom Line

Cooper's appointment signals a transformative period for Cal State LA basketball; his proven leadership and legacy as a player inspire optimism for both athletic success and impactful mentorship for student-athletes.