Hofstra men’s basketball head coach Joe Mihalich will be taking a temporary medical leave from his head coaching responsibilities, Hofstra Athletics announced in a press release on Wednesday, Aug. 26. No reason was given in the release for Mihalich’s decision.

“We wish Coach Mihalich well during this time and look forward to his return soon,” said Hofstra Vice President and Director of Athletics Rick Cole Jr.

Mihalich finished his seventh season with the Pride capturing the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Tournament title over Northeastern University. This was Hofstra’s first tournament championship and NCAA Tournament berth since 2001. 

Associate head coach Mike Farrelly will serve as acting head coach in Mihalich’s absence. Farrelly also completed his seventh season at Hofstra serving as an assistant coach before being promoted last season to associate head coach.

Farrelly was named one of 50 Impactful Mid Major Assistants by Silver Waves Media and was also ranked as one of the top CAA assistant coaches.

In seven seasons, Mihalich amassed 141 wins with Hofstra and over 400 wins in his career. In the past five years, the Pride has averaged over 22 wins a season. In the 2018-19 season, Hofstra set a school record with 27 wins.

The Pride has captured three CAA regular-season titles, four 20-win seasons, four postseason appearances and one CAA Tournament championship in Mihalich’s tenure.

Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics