Louisiana Lowers Flags to Honor Coach Dale Brown
Governor Jeff Landry ordered state flags to half-staff to commemorate the legendary former LSU basketball coach.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Basketball
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has ordered state flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of former LSU men's basketball coach Dale Brown. Brown, who led the Tigers for 25 years, died on October 23 at the age of 90.
Why it matters
The order serves as a formal state recognition of Brown's significant influence on Louisiana athletics and his legacy within the LSU program. His tenure remains a defining era for the team, marked by two appearances in the NCAA Final Four.
Dale Brown coached the LSU men's basketball team for 25 seasons, leading the program to NCAA Final Four appearances in 1981 and 1986. He passed away at the age of 90.
The players
Jeff Landry
Jeff Landry is the current Governor of Louisiana who issued the executive order to lower state flags.
Dale Brown
Dale Brown was a long-serving head coach of the LSU men's basketball team who gained national recognition for his successful career.
The details
Governor Jeff Landry issued the executive order to lower flags across Louisiana on October 31 to honor Brown's life and service. The state is currently preparing for funeral and memorial services scheduled for early November in Baton Rouge.
Timeline
Dale Brown coached the LSU men's basketball team from 1972 to 1997.
Brown led the Tigers to an NCAA Final Four appearance in 1981.
Brown led the Tigers to an NCAA Final Four appearance in 1986.
Dale Brown died at the age of 90 on October 23, 2026.
Flags were lowered to half-staff across Louisiana on October 31, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The recognition of Dale Brown highlights his lasting impact on the trajectory of the LSU basketball program. His leadership during the 1981 and 1986 seasons remains a foundational benchmark for the program's historical standing.
The state-wide tribute creates a unique atmosphere for the upcoming LSU basketball events in Baton Rouge. Fans attending the November 11 services should anticipate significant traffic and crowds around the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.
The takeaway
Browns legacy serves as a reminder of the long-term impact coaches can have on both a university and its wider community. Residents looking to pay their respects can attend the scheduled public services in Baton Rouge on November 11.
What happens next
A funeral mass is scheduled at St. George Catholic Church on November 11 at 10 a.m., followed by a celebration of life at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center on November 11 at 6 p.m.
Further reading
Find more updates on local sports history in the Basketball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WBRZ.
