ATHENS, Ga. — The Tom Crean era in Athens is over.
Georgia Bulldogs fired its men’s basketball head coach Thursday evening after the team’s 35 point loss to Vanderbilt in SEC Tournament Wednesday.
“I would like to sincerely thank Coach Crean and his family for their commitment to Georgia Basketball,” Georgia athletic director Josh Brooks said. “Tom Crean demonstrated unquestionable effort and enthusiasm in what he has attempted to accomplish at Georgia. That said, our expectation is to compete for post-season success in all 21 sports. We believe a leadership change in men’s basketball is needed to achieve our goals.”
No surprise here.. but UGA is officially parting ways with HC Tom Crean.
— Zach Klein (@ZachKleinWSB) March 10, 2022
AD Josh Brooks just let him know a new direction in leader ship is needed.
UGA finished the season 6-26 capped by a 12-game losing streak. The 26 losses are the most in program history.
Crean took over the Bulldogs program in 2018 when he signed a six-year, $19.8 million contract. His buyout clause is around $3.2 million.
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Crean brought with him an impressive resume that includes a Final Four team at Marquette and three Sweet 16 teams at Indiana.
But his previous success didn’t translate to wins in Athens. Georgia only saw one winning season under Crean when the Bulldogs finished 14-12 (7-11, SEC) in 2020-2021 season.
Crean leaves Athens with a 47-75 overall record and 15-58 record in SEC play.
UGA says they will begin a nationwide search immediately for Crean’s replacement.
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