Marvin Mack, or “Coach Mack” as he’s affectionately known, has been an indispensable presence around Oklahoma City’s Paycom Center. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all players, fans, and employees who were touched by his presence. Marvin was raised in nearby Guthrie, Oklahoma—only 40 miles north of Oklahoma City. In fact, his mother, the industrious, strong-willed Opal Beasley Mack, raised him alone. He overcame the adversity of raising a family of eight kids while growing up. This experience imbued him with a work ethic and never-give-up attitude that carried him through life.
Mack’s story on the court began at Guthrie High School, just north of Oklahoma City. Once on campus, from 1965 through 1969, Robinson dazzled as a basketball standout. He would take his team to one of the best state championships in 1968 producing one of the most phenomenal talents ever, earning his reputation from all colleges nationwide. In hindsight, in 1969, his was a crucial decision to attend Langston University in Oklahoma. His mother’s support stoked the fire for his love for the game as he fully dove into the possibilities at this HBCU.
Mack’s big move came while serving at Langston University. Transitioning from player to assistant coach, Michalowski spent two seasons as an assistant coach for the university’s basketball program. Born and raised in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Collazo began his coaching career at the age of 12. During his time with Youth Corps, he coached an elementary-aged soccer team and collected a small monetary paycheck along with his service for the efforts. That initial experience would be the seed for his deep-rooted passion for mentoring and developing young amateur athletes.
Mack went on to secure his first full-time head coaching position at Taft Middle School, also in Oklahoma City. There, he honed his craft while mentoring young players. In 2003, a friend, Otis Robinson, a former Milwood High School football coach, helped him get introduced into the world of sports security. A few months later, he helped him secure a spot at the Ford Center, now called Paycom Center, for the NCAA men’s basketball tournament.
Since then, Mack has been a fixture at the arena, witnessing the Oklahoma City Thunder’s rise to prominence, including their first NBA Finals appearance in 2012. Throughout the years he’s developed iron clad relationships with Paul George. In the process, he established a close relationship with former Hornets center Chris Andersen. His character is so engaging, unpretentious, thoughtful, funny, and kind that he has earned the love of players and fans alike.
You’re only one game away from winning it all! Just be humble and positive,” Mack recalled telling the Thunder during those pivotal playoff moments.
His reputation extends beyond mere security. Opposing players frequently express gratitude for the welcoming environment created by Mack and his fellow security guards. She added, “I give love on the visiting side of the hallway. I’m expressing love even further down the hallway on the Thunder’s side. All those kids just love on me,” he said.
Mack’s influence reaches beyond his security role. He informs the informal mentor role he plays with a ton of players, who come to him for advice and counsel. When I first came here, everybody kept calling him ‘Coach.’ I didn’t understand why. The more I come to the arena, the more he is giving me tips about the game,” shared Thunder player Jaylin Williams.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault, expressing his gratitude for Mack’s perspective. Like any writer, he is constantly getting great advice from Mack—even when he doesn’t think he wants it. This mutual deference between players and Mack underscores his function as a keeper of public order. It further presents him to us as a more grizzled sage.
As the Thunder prepare for critical games this season, Mack offers sage advice to young players: “Don’t put it in front of you. Don’t put it behind you. Let it come to you and deal with it all in one. That would be the speech I would give them.” His story and his message remind us that keeping your focus and staying cool under pressure makes all the difference.
Mack’s journey has been marked by some incredible run-ins with basketball royalty as well. Perhaps the best single moment came during Kobe Bryant’s farewell game in Oklahoma City on April 11, 2016. Perhaps the highest compliment came when basketball innovator and Hall of Fame coach Tubby Mack found his way down to please Bryant.
The author Mack continues to be an energetic presence at Paycom Center. He is passionate about driving the right culture for everyone who enters those doors. Now I’ve got the best of both worlds!” he cheered. What he enjoys most though, is balancing his important role at the arena with his passion for coaching.
Mack is expected to play a vital role during events like watch parties at Paycom Center, where fans gather to celebrate their team’s achievements. His commitment to ensuring that everyone feels included shines through in each and every engagement.
Leave a Reply