The 13th Region basketball community is mourning the loss of former Knox Central boys’ basketball coach Mitchell Madden, who passed away Sunday, Sept. 6, following a battle with cancer.
Madden spent two seasons leading the Panthers and compiled a 43-18 record during his tenure. He guided Knox Central to a 51st District championship in 2024 and led the program to two appearances in the 13th Region Tournament.
In 2025, Madden’s Panthers finished with a 22-8 record before falling to Harlan County in the opening round of the 13th Region Tournament.
Prior to taking over at Knox Central, Madden served one season as the boys’ basketball coach at Oneida Baptist Institute. He also spent a season coaching the Jackson County High School girls’ basketball program.
Madden had recently stepped away from coaching to focus on his health following a cancer diagnosis.
Beyond the wins, championships and tournament appearances, Madden made a lasting impression on the players he coached and those who crossed paths with him throughout the 13th Region and Eastern Kentucky.
Sports broadcaster Steve Black recalled interviewing Madden during last year’s 13th Region Tournament and the attitude Madden displayed while facing his health battle.
“I had the chance to interview Coach Madden during last year’s Regional Tournament,” he said. “I admired his positive attitude and his faith as he was facing this battle. He was such a great coach that had a tremendous and positive impact on many kids in this area. He will be greatly missed.”
13th Region Media Network’s Les Dixon also remembered Madden as not only an outstanding basketball coach, but someone he considered a friend.
“Coach Madden was one of the best people I’ve ever worked with,” he said. “He was a great coach, but also a great promoter of his program and all of the student-athletes that played for him. He was such a nice person, and I just really admired his positive attitude and faith.
“He had such a tremendous impact on numerous kids throughout Eastern Kentucky,” Dixon added. “I last spoke with him a few weeks ago, and he was positive as ever, and continued to battle. He was a good friend, and he’s going to be missed greatly.”
Madden’s legacy will extend well beyond his 43 victories at Knox Central, a district championship or his appearances in the 13th Region Tournament. He will be remembered for the relationships he built, the student-athletes he influenced and the positive attitude and faith he displayed throughout his battle with cancer.
