DeKalb County’s second winningest coach has announced his resignation, the revelation coming following the end of the 2017-18 campaign.

“The past 16 years have been some of the best, most memorable years of my life,” head DeKalb County basketball coach Lynus Martin wrote in an open letter regarding his departure. ‘I feel as though I’ve grown up in front of you, and being able to lead our basketball family has been a dream come true."

Coach Martin took the helm of the boys program after the departure of coach Danny Bond during the 2002-03 season. During his 16 seasons on the job, he amassed a 276-203, making him the second winningest coach in Tiger basketball history, finishing only behind former Coach Harold Luna.

“It has been an honor to represent both the school district and DeKalb County. I can’t say enough about how much all of your support has meant to me and our program,” the coach wrote. “After lots of thoughts and prayers, I’ve decided that it is in my best interest to resign my basketball coaching position at this time. Effective immediately at the end of this school year. For many years Tiger Basketball has been my number-one priority, but as life progresses, circumstances change, and at this time, I felt it necessary to refocus much of my energy to my family and other avenues of life”

While leaving his basketball duties, Martin will continue serving as a teacher. A search is underway for his successor. The coach thanked his mentor whom he replaced 16 seasons ago.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity former head boys basketball coach Danny Bond gave me back in 2002, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more from my experience,” he wrote. “Also, thankful to my wife Jessica for her undying support and love throughout all these years and to all my kids for their love and support of their dad when it seemed like I was never home”.

The coach also thanked his players for all their hard work throughout the years.

“Most importantly, to all my players (alumni and current), outside of my immediate family, there’s no one I care for more. My off-court, practice, and game antics weren’t an act, but rather what you brought out of me - my best, and I will forever be indebted to all of you for that”.

“I will continue to represent DeKalb County to the best of my ability, regardless of what the future may hold. I will never forget these years as head of the FAMILY; not just for the basketball victories, but for the relationships built, culture created, lessons learned, and the memories that will last a lifetime.”