Michael Schieber has made a lot of tough decisions as head coach over the years, but none tougher than Wednesday.

The Lee’s Summit West head boys basketball coach informed players and staff on Wednesday night that he will be stepping away from the sidelines due to health reasons.

Schieber, the school’s lone coach since the school opened in 2004-05, underwent emergency back surgery a few weeks ago and hasn’t returned to the sideline or teaching duties since. Doctors have recommended for both short- and long-term health for Schieber to retire from coaching.

The Titans (17-5) are ranked No. 5 in Missouri Class 6, including a win over No. 1 Oak Park on Saturday at 810 Varsity Showcase 34. Kevin Harrison has served as the interim head coach in Schieber’s absence since January 18.

“The decision has been difficult, but I physically can’t be there for the kids and coaches, and I want to be fair to them to not be expecting me to return and know their course the rest of the season,” Schieber said. “I hoped that I could return, but the reality is I’m not able to. It’s been really tough to make this decision because of the kids and their hard work and dedication to the program. I’m really proud of them and I know they will continue representing Titan basketball and making the community and school proud too.”

With Schieber at the helm since the school’s doors opened, Lee’s Summit West became one of the top programs in the Metro – and state. The Titans won 380 games with Schieber on the sideline, advancing to the state semifinals four times, including finishes as state-runner up (2017) and third place in 2014 and 2012.

A barrel load of notable products played under Schieber, including Shaq Harrison in his seventh season in the NBA (Memphis) and Monte Harrison in Major League Baseball. Plus many NCAA Division I basketball players including Michael Dixon (Missouri, Memphis), Elijah Childs (Bradley), Yor Anei (Oklahoma State) and Christian Bishop (Creighton, Texas).

“All the success that Lee’s Summit West has enjoyed is because of the players, their families and our coaches,” Schieber said. “I’ve truly been blessed to be their coach.”