Newman University head basketball coach Mark Potter is nearing another career milestone. Potter is closing in on 300 career college victories, all at NU. In his 17th year, coach Potter’s record stands at an impressive 295-185.
The Jets will host Lubbock Christian at 7:30 p.m. in Fugate Gymnasium tonight and then Oklahoma Panhandle State at 1 p.m. on Jan. 10.
Potter, a former Newman player and Assistant Coach, has compiled the highest winning percentage in Newman’s basketball history. In 1998, he was chosen to resurrect the men’s basketball program after an 11-year hiatus.
In only the second year back, Potter led his team to an undefeated conference championship, a National Tournament berth, and a 29-6 overall record. The Jets also finished the year ranked 13th in the nation. Potter was selected as the MCAC Coach of the Year, Kansas Four Year College Coach of the Year and Wichita Sports Commission Coach of the Year.
A National Tournament appearance was also part of the 2001-2002 basketball season. That year the Jets finished with a 27-5 record and lost in the first round of the tournament by 2 points. Potter was again selected Coach of the Year in the MCAC. Newman continued their success in 2004-2005. They finished 23-10 overall and 11-3 in conference. Led by 1st Team All-Conference Selections Seth Elliott and Massamba Fall, the Jets pushed on to the NAIA Sweet Sixteen. Elliott’s performance that season also earned him Honorable Mention All-American Honors. Newman finished the year ranked No. 20 in the nation.
