The Minnesota Gophers men's basketball team has parted ways with its head coach Richard Pitino.
Athletic Director Mark Coyle said in a statement:
"I recently met with Richard and told him that we were moving in a different direction. Richard is a tremendous person and coach, and I want to thank him, Jill and their family for their commitment to Minnesota. We wish them well in their next endeavor.
"Decisions like this are never easy, but after evaluating this season and the previous eight years of our program under Richard, it is clear to me that new leadership is needed. We have one of the best practice facilities in the nation, a historic competition venue and a state that produces top-caliber talent. This is an extremely attractive job, and we will immediately start a nationwide search for our next head coach."
Just minutes after the announcement, Pitino sent a tweet saying he is looking forward to the future.
Pitino took over the Gophers program in 2014 and led them to an NIT championship. He was 141-123 (54-96 in Big Ten play) and lead them to NCAA Tournament appearances in 8 years as coach.
Reports say Pitino is one of the top two candidates to take over the New Mexico program.
