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Weber Out as Head Coach at U of I

Former U of I Men's Basketball Coach Bruce Weber
ESPN
Former U of I Men's Basketball Coach Bruce Weber

The University of Illinois has fired head basketball coach Bruce Weber after a disappointing season.Weber spent nearly a decade at Illinois, having guided the team to its first Big Ten title in more than 50 years… and its only N-C-double A championship game. But the Illini have had a rocky season, losing 12 of their last 14 games. Athletic Director Mike Thomas announced Weber’s departure Friday during a news conference. Thomas says Weber is everything you would want in a coach as it relates to how he represents the university, his athletes, and that makes it that much more difficult.

During a news conference Friday afternoon Weber said he’s fortunate to have had the chance to work at the U of I and be part of the Big Ten conference.  Weber says he leaves with no regret. He says he believes the program is on solid footing and will experience the levels of success University of Illinois enjoyed much of his time there.  Weber says he is very proud of what basketball program has accomplished during his tenure.

Thomas says Assistant Basketball Coach Jerrance Howard will fill in for Weber on an interim basis while a national search takes place for a permanent replacement. As part of a buyout, Weber will be paid approximately $4 million dollars during the remainder of his three year contract.   Weber wasn't at the news conference, but he is expected to release a statement later Friday afternoon.

 

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