Detroit Mercy has locked in head basketball coach Mark Montgomery with a contract extension that runs through the 2030-31 season, the university announced Wednesday. This vote of confidence comes after Montgomery orchestrated one of the most impressive turnarounds in the Horizon League.
Hired in April 2024 after serving as an assistant at his alma mater, Michigan State, Montgomery inherited a program in need of rebuilding. His first season was a tough one, with the Titans finishing 8-24. But the hard work paid off in year two, as Detroit Mercy surged to a 17-15 record—the program's best since the 2012-13 season. That resurgence included a dramatic run to the Horizon League championship game, where the Titans fell just short in a 66-63 loss to Wright State. It was the program's first conference title game appearance since 2012.
“We believe in the program and the culture that coach Montgomery is establishing here at Detroit Mercy,” athletic director Robert C. Vowels said in a statement.
Montgomery’s impact has been felt on the court and in the stat sheets. Under his guidance, three players earned Horizon League accolades: Orlando Lovejoy, TJ Nadeau, and Tyler Spratt. Looking ahead, the Titans are set to return six players for the 2026 season, providing a strong foundation for continued success.
“I am committed to building a championship program, culture and identity here at Detroit Mercy,” Montgomery said in a statement.
However, the program faces a hurdle next season, as it will be banned from postseason play due to falling short of an NCAA academic benchmark. Despite this, the Titans are poised for another strong campaign, and Montgomery’s extension signals a long-term commitment to building a winner in the Motor City.
