Mike Schuler

Michael Harold Schuler (September 22, 1940 – June 28, 2022) was an American basketball coach in both college and the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was the head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers from 1986 to 1992 and compiled a win–loss record of 179–159. He won the NBA Coach of the Year Award in 1987, becoming the second rookie coach to be conferred the honor.

Early life Michael Harold Schuler was born on September 22, 1940, in Portsmouth, Ohio, on September 22, 1940. He attended Portsmouth High School in his hometown. He graduated in 1962.

Coaching career Army (1965–1966) Schuler started his coaching career in 1965, working as an assistant for the Army Black Knights.

Ohio (1966–1969) Schuler then went back to Ohio, his alma mater, and was an assistant coach there for three seasons.

VMI (1969–1972) Schuler subsequently joined the Virginia Military Institute as its head coach in 1969.

Virginia (1972–1977) Schuler had a four-season stint as an assistant at the University of Virginia.

Rice (1977–1981) Schuler became head coach of the Rice Owls in 1977. He served in that capacity until 1981, compiling a .283 winning percentage (30–76) during his tenure there.

During his first season as coach of the Blazers, Schuler led the franchise to a 49–33 record. He was first named NBA Coach of the Month in February 1987, before winning the NBA Coach of the Year Award later that year. In his third season with the Blazers, the team was racked with dissension and posted a 25–22 record before Schuler was fired in mid-February. He recorded a .602 winning percentage (127–84) with the Trail Blazers.

Golden State Warriors (1989–1990) Schuler served as assistant coach of the Golden State Warriors for the 1989–90 season.

Los Angeles Clippers (1990–1992) Schuler become head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers the following year. compiling a .409 winning percentage (52–75) during his time with the Clippers.

Sacramento Kings (1992–1994) Schuler was an assistant coach with the Sacramento Kings from 1992 to 1994.

Minnesota Timberwolves (1994–1996) Schuler was an assistant coach with the Minnesota Timberwolves from 1994 to 1997.