Lowe Steps Down

A national search for the next men’s head basketball coach is under way following the resignation of Sidney Lowe on Tuesday.

“I have been truly blessed by the opportunity to coach at my alma mater,” Lowe said. “I am thankful for this experience. I am excited to follow the path the Lord takes me on as I maintain my relationship with the Wolfpack family for years to come.”

Athletic Director Debbie Yow discussed the change at a news conference Tuesday night.

“Coach Lowe is an important part of the Wolfpack family. All of his efforts during the past five years are much appreciated. I personally have enjoyed our interaction during the year. We look forward to opportunities where Sidney can share his expertise on agent issues and other student welfare topics without interfering with his future career opportunities. He will always be part of the Wolfpack family.”

Lowe has played a significant role in NC State’s storied basketball history. A 1979 McDonald’s All-American out of DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Md., Lowe came to NC State with teammate and fellow McDonald’s All-American Dereck Whittenburg. Together, they played for the late Coach Jim Valvano and led the Wolfpack to its second NCAA Men’s Basketball National Championship in 1983. Lowe logged all 40 minutes in the championship game, finishing with eight points, eight assists and zero turnovers.

After Lowe’s sophomore campaign at NC State, he starred on the 1981 USA Basketball team that won a gold medal at the World University Games in Bucharest, Romania. Lowe was the Chicago Bulls’ first overall pick of the second round in the 1983 NBA Draft. For the next 23 years, he played and coached basketball at the professional level.

Lowe amassed an overall record of 86-78 (.524) and 25-55 (.313) in the Atlantic Coast Conference over five years.

During the national search, associate head coach Monte Towe will continue in his current role and lead the program, Yow said.