In a surprising turn of events, Hubert Davis will not be returning as the head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels next season. The news, broken by ESPN's Pete Thamel, comes on the heels of a tough NCAA Tournament exit where the Tar Heels were ousted in the first round after squandering a 19-point lead to VCU.
During his five-year tenure, Davis led the team to an overall record of 125-54. Despite this solid performance, the decision was made to part ways, and Davis will receive nearly $5.3 million as stipulated in his contract.
Thamel clarified that this move was indeed a firing, dispelling any rumors of a resignation. Davis expressed his sentiments in a heartfelt statement, saying, "Tonight, I was let go by the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill.
My desire was to continue to coach here. This opportunity has truly been such a blessing.
I thank Jesus literally every day for giving me the opportunity, relationships, and experiences with the kids and my staff. I am very proud of what we were able to accomplish together.
My goal is to coach again in the very near future."
As the Tar Heels embark on the search for a new head coach, CBS Sports insider Jon Rothstein notes that the search will extend beyond the traditional Tar Heels circle. With a promising recruiting class on the horizon, the position is shaping up to be one of the most coveted coaching opportunities available.