Stephen F. Austin head coach Kyle Keller, a former Tyler Junior College assistant coach and head coach, directs his players during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Duke in Durham, N.C., on Nov. 26, 2019. (File Photo)

SFA Athletics

NACOGDOCHES — Stephen F. Austin State University announced today that men’s basketball head coach Kyle Keller has been relieved of his duties, effective immediately.

The decision to make a change in leadership comes after a disappointing 1-7 start to Southland Conference play, and an 8-11 overall record for the season. The program’s last conference championship came in 2022, and the last NCAA tournament appearance was in 2018.

“We want to thank Kyle for his positive contributions and leadership over the past nine seasons, including memorable and iconic wins at some of the most hallowed sites in college basketball that will forever be etched in SFA history,” said Michael McBroom, SFA director of athletics. “We wish him well in his future opportunities.”

Associate Head Coach Tony Jasick will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. He is in his fourth season, joining the Lumberjack basketball program in June 2021.

The university will launch a national search for a new head coach for the men’s basketball program immediately.

Keller, a former Tyler Junior College head coach released a statement.

“After serving the Nacogdoches community and Stephen F. Austin State University as head basketball coach for almost nine years, I have received notice from SFA that my time here has come to an end. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the fans, alumni, students, current players, former players, coaches and university officials for their heartfelt support. We enjoyed tremendous success during my tenure as head basketball coach and I am proud of all our accomplishments.

“My family and I love this community. You welcomed us with open arms and granted us your unwavering support through your encouragement and love during our time here. For that, we are eternally grateful. Thank you for trusting me and believing in me for what we all wanted to achieve for this community and program. What an amazing privilege it has been for me to lead this incredible program.

“I have poured my heart and soul into my position here. Together, we have experienced awesome memories, such as the win versus Duke and other championship successes, as well the challenges in the current season. Please continue to support the Lumberjacks this year and for years to come. A program is more than one win or one season. My hope is that the foundation that has been laid during my tenure will allow this program to move forward and achieve even greater success in the future.

“Lastly, I would like to thank my loving family, Chaunsea, Kenzie and Kemper, for their love, support and the many sacrifices they have made during my coaching career.”