Mike graduated from Hudson Catholic High School in 1976 as an All-State basketball player and chose the University of North Carolina to continue his career and play for Hall of Fame coach Dean Smith. In his freshman year, he led the Tar Heels to the NCAA Finals against Marquette and was named to the Final Four All Tournament Team.

O’Koren was a consensus three time All American selection in 1978-79 and 1980. In 1978, his 64.3% was second best in the nation.

Mike was selected sixth overall in the 1980 NBA Draft and played seven years with the Nets and one year with the Washington Wizards. Stan Albeck, who coached O’Koren from 1983-85 called Mike the first point forward in the NBA. During O’Koren’s career with the Nets, they made the NBA Playoffs six times.

After his career ended in 1988, Mike worked as a color analyst for both the Nets radio and TV broadcast. Also during that time period, Mike broadcasted numerous games for ESPN International. O’Koren was also active with the Nets in their Community Relations Department conducting countless clinics throughout the state.

In 1998, Mike was hired by Coach Don Casey to become an assistant coach for the Nets. During his tenure as an assistant, the Nets captured two Atlantic Division Championships as well as two Eastern Conference Championships and reached the NBA Finals in 2002 and 2003.

Following the 2003 season, Mike became the Associate Head Coach of the Washington Wizards. The Wizards made four straight trips to the playoffs during O’Koren’s time there. Mike assumed the same position with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2009-2010.

During Mike’s coaching career, he was noted for his work with both guards and forwards and has been credited for his work with players like Jason Kidd, Richard Jefferson, Kenyon Martin, Antawn Jamison, and Brian Scalabrine.