GREAT FALLS, Mont. – The University of Providence has announced that head men's basketball coach JC Isakson has stepped down from his position to become the head men's basketball coach at his Alma mater Montana Western.

Isakson spent the past eight years at the University of Providence, including five as an assistant with the men's and women's programs and the last three as head men's basketball coach. He also served two years as a graduate assistant at Montana State Billings and began his coaching career as an assistant at Montana Western from 2014 to 2016.

Isakson stated, "To the community of Great Falls, the University of Providence, and Argos Men's Basketball, thank you. We came here eight years ago, young and hungry, and you gave us an opportunity. During our time here we learned and grew. Both through success and failure. It was here we started a started a family, made life-long friends, and experienced both elation and deep sorrow. We experienced life. 

To everyone who impacted our lives, the colleagues, peers, administration, alumni, boosters, and coaching staff, thank you. To the greater Great Falls community, you will forever be in our hearts for your prayer and support for our son Clay and investment in his journey. Words cannot explain how loved we felt during our times of need.

As this chapter comes to an end, it does so with much gratitude. Especially towards the players. The young men who trusted and chose us. You are the why. We will forever be connected. I look forward to watching you do great things and remember, always bet on yourself."

Athletic Director Dannette Swift stated, "I want to thank Coach Isakson for his dedication, hard work and everything he has done for our program and our student-athletes during his time as an assistant coach and over the past three years as head coach. Returning to coach his Alma mater at Montana Western is an exciting opportunity that speaks to the impact he has made in this profession. While we're excited for what's ahead for him, we're incredibly grateful for everything he has given to the University of Providence. His dedication, leadership, and commitment to our student-athletes have left a lasting mark on this program. He will always be part of the Argo family, and we wish him nothing but success in this next chapter."

The University of Providence will begin a national search for its next head men's basketball coach immediately.