Mark Turgeon Steps Down As University Of Maryland Basketball Coach

Mark Turgeon is stepping down from his head coaching duties at the University of Maryland. The University and Turgeon have mutually agreed to part ways. Former NBA star Danny Manning will take over the reigns as interim head coach while the Terps search for a new head man.

The Terrapins are off to a mediocre 5-3 start to the 2021 campaign. He was hired as the head coach by Marland in 2011, after leaving Texas A&M. He’d failed to achieve the lofty success the program was used to during his tenure. The Terps won the National championship in 2002 and lost in the Final Four in 2001.

Last year, the team finished an unimpressive 17-14. They had slightly more success in years prior, reaching the 20-win mark in 2018 and 2019. Since then, the team has been treading water at best.

Athletic Director Damon Evans gave a statement on Mark Turgeon’s departure. His final record at Maryland is 226-116. Maryland has dropped consecutive games against ACC members Louisville and Virginia Tech.

“After a series of conversations with Coach Turgeon, we agreed that a coaching change was the best move for Coach Turgeon and for the Maryland Men’s Basketball program.

He has dedicated over a decade of his life to the University of Maryland, and has coached with distinction and honor. He leaves College Park as the 2020 Big Ten Conference champion and with more than 225 victories. He’s a great coach and a great person, and I wish Mark, his wife Ann and his entire family all the best in the next chapter of their lives.”

Turgeon said stepping down was in the best interest of the Maryland basketball program. Manning will now be left to pick up the pieces. The search for a new permanent coach will begin immediately.