Bio

Head Coach TJ Jackson has named Michael Lyons as the new assistant coach for the Indian River State College men’s basketball program. A Cocoa, Florida native, Coach Lyons brings a wealth of experience to “The River,” with a background that includes high school coaching, travel basketball leadership, and professional playing experience.

Coach Lyons began his coaching career at Cocoa High School, where he spent six seasons—three of those leading the junior varsity team to an impressive 45–7 record. In addition to his coaching duties, he served as the team’s primary trainer, helping develop players and prepare them for the next level. During his time at Cocoa, Coach Lyons helped send countless student-athletes on to play collegiate basketball.

In 2023–24, Coach Lyons took over the boys’ basketball program at Life Christian Academy. In just one season, he led a dramatic turnaround—taking the team from a 7–20 record the year before to an outstanding 28–3 season. Under his leadership, Life Christian captured both the Sunshine State Championship and the Christian League Championship. That year, he also coached standout junior Ahmed Mustapha, one of the top rising players in the state.

In addition to his work at the high school level, Coach Lyons is the founder and director of Brotherhood, a grassroots travel basketball program that has grown significantly over the past three years. This past summer, he led seven teams under the Brotherhood banner, with the program’s core values summed up by the slogan: Push. Pray. Believe.

Coach Lyons also brings professional playing experience to IRSC, with stints in London and Norway.

“Basketball has been a lifelong passion for me,” says Coach Lyons. “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to join Indian River State College and work alongside Coach TJ and the staff. It’s a blessing to be part of a program committed to excellence.”

Coach Lyons currently resides in Brevard County, Florida.