OKLAHOMA CITY – The Mid-America Christian University (MACU) Evangels open the 2014-15 season at home on Thursday, October 30, against the Oklahoma Christian University (OCU) Eagles. There is an inevitable battle on and off the court, not only between determined athletes, but also legendary coaches.
Between the MACU and OC head coaches, there is a combined 77 years of head coaching experience and an astonishing 1,499 victories.
MACU head coach Willie Holley previously announced that this 42nd season will be his last, which means this could be the final time he will face fellow legendary OC head coach Dan Hays.
"I have had the privilege of coaching against so many fine coaches and Dan Hays is one of the best," Holley said. "Dan knows the game of basketball and teaches as well as anyone at any level. But the most important thing is he teaches life lessons along with coaching and makes a difference in the lives of his players."
Holley has been a fixture at MACU since 1973, when he took on the dual role of head coach and athletic director, a position he served in until 2012.
He's led the Evangels to four National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) national championships and has brought MACU into the upper echelon of the Sooner Athletic Conference in a short period of time since joining the NAIA in 2007.
Only 12 wins away from the #800 milestone, Holley is the second all-time winningest coach in NAIA history.
Meanwhile, Hays is going into his 32nd season and has recorded 711 wins, the most ever at a four-year Oklahoma college.
"It has been an honor to coach against Willie Holley," Hays said. "He is a true man of integrity and a master teacher and coach. I'm proud to call him a friend."
The MACU Evangels have high expectations heading into the season with the return of four starters, including NAIA All-America performer Semar Farris.
The two teams could meet again this season if both schools advance and face each other at the NCCAA Central Regional or NCCAA National Tournament.
"This may be one of the most historic, competitive relationships in the history of the state," MACU Athletic Director Craig Ruiz said. "Since this game is very likely the final competition between these two truly great men of basketball for Oklahoma I certainly don't want to miss it."
The MACU season opener against OC will be Thursday, October 30, 7 p.m., at the Gaulke Activity Center in Oklahoma City.
