Gipson Honored for 500 Wins

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. --- Larry Gipson was honored Monday night for reaching a coaching milestone recently at Northeastern State University.

The personable RiverHawks mentor was recognized during a pregame ceremony for winning 500 games as a collegiate coach. After Monday's 68-33 dismantling of Rhema Bible College, Gipson's coaching record stands at a remarkable 505-297. During his Northeastern State tenure, which spans 13 seasons, Gipson has logged a 220-137 mark.

Never one to mince words, Gipson, whose  500th win came on Dec. 10, 2009, against Texas A&M-Kingsville, says the feat may be more a case of "longevity" within the coaching ranks than anything else.

Former Redmen  basketball coaches Dr. Jack Dobbins and Ken Hayes were on hand to share the celebration with Gipson. They represent the three winningest coaching in Northeastern State basketball history with 758 wins combines. Dobbins has 314 wins to his credit, Hayes won 224 and Gipson now has 220.

Jeff Konya, Director of Athletics, presented Gipson with a commemorative game ball for his coaching milestone, along with a golf package to prestigious Karsten Creek Golf Club. The Wayne Mitchell Family also donated a silver tray, signed by student-athletes and coaches of the RiverHawks basketball program, as well as a crystal vase.

"It was really an honor," said Gipson. "I really want to thank the Mitchell's, Jack Dobbins and Ken Hayes for being a part of that tonight.

‘"I kind of thought I would get a basketball. It was really nice to get those gifts and real nice to be out there with two legendary Northeastern State coaches."

Gipson has won two national championships as a coach --- the 2003 NCAA Division II Men's Championship and the 1990 Junior College title at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M.