HICKORY, N.C. – Lenoir-Rhyne University Athletics will host a meaningful weekend of remembrance and celebration on December 20–21, 2025, honoring the legacy of Coach Lentz and his lasting impact on the Bears men's basketball program.
The weekend will bring together former student-athletes, coaches, staff, and LR fans for a series of events centered around fellowship, gratitude, and celebration of life.
Saturday, December 20: Coach Lentz Tribute Game & Reception
Lenoir-Rhyne hosts Mars Hill in a home doubleheader at Shuford Arena on Saturday, December 20, with game times at 2pm (women's) and 4pm (men's).
The LR Men's Basketball game will be played in honor of Coach Lentz, and all of his former players, coaches, and staff recognized on court prior to tip-off. The team will wear commemorative Coach Lentz jersey patches starting on December 20 and for the remainder of the season.
To ensure the entire Bears basketball family can attend, admission will be FREE for all fans on December 20. Former men's basketball student-athletes are especially encouraged to attend and bring guests.
Following the game, all former men's basketball players are invited to a reception in the Bears Club Pavilion.
Sunday, December 21: Celebration of Life
The weekend will conclude on Sunday, December 21, with a Celebration of Life event honoring Coach Lentz and the profound influence he had on generations of student-athletes and the LR community. The celebration begins at 2pm in Shuford Arena.
LINK to Coach Lentz Scholarship Fund
