Ohio State University has fired men’s basketball coach Chris Holtmann after a tumultuous season that saw the team struggle with an overall record of 14-11 and falling one game out of last place in the Big Ten standings. The school announced the decision to relieve Holtmann of his duties after a 62-54 loss to Wisconsin. Despite the firing, the university still owes Holtmann $12.8 million from his current contract.
Associate coach Jake Diebler will take over on an interim basis as the school’s athletic director, Gene Smith, expressed his appreciation for Holtmann’s contributions to the program. Future athletic director Ross Bjork will oversee the search for a permanent replacement for Holtmann, who has an overall record of 137-86 during his tenure at Ohio State.
Holtmann’s departure comes as a shock, as he was once considered one of the top coaches in college basketball. His time at Ohio State saw the team make NCAA Tournament appearances but struggle to advance past the second round in recent years. Holtmann has faced challenges such as unexpected early departures of key players to the NBA and missed opportunities with other recruits.
The decision to fire Holtmann also highlights potential changes within the athletic program at Ohio State, as athletic director Gene Smith is set to retire soon, paving the way for Ross Bjork to take over and potentially make his own hire for the men’s basketball program. The firing comes at a time when other Big Ten programs, like Michigan under coach Juwan Howard, are also facing struggles, but with his job seemingly secure despite poor performance.
Source
Photo credit www.cbssports.com