Maryland President Darryll J. Pines released an update regarding the men’s basketball team on Sunday morning after Kevin Willard accepted the head coaching position at Villanova. Upon the news becoming official, Terps legend Steve Blake chimed in writing, “Tough to see Coach Willard leave. He did a great job and I wish him the best! With that being said. I’m available and would love the challenge. Go Terps!!!”
Steve Blake played college basketball at the University of Maryland, where he became one of the school’s all-time assist leaders and earned All-ACC honors helping the team to an NCAA championship in 2002. Following his collegiate success, Blake enjoyed an 18-season NBA career with several teams, including the Indiana Pacers, Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Wizards, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Clippers, and Denver Nuggets. His steady performance and leadership on the court made him a respected figure throughout his pro career.
The full update by Maryland President Darryll J. Lines can be seen below:
Dear Terrapin Nation,
Earlier today, Kevin Willard officially announced he would be stepping down as the head coach of our Men’s Basketball program to accept another position.
Coach Willard led the Terps on an incredible run this season. The Crab 5, Derik Queen’s miraculous buzzer-beater, and a Sweet 16 berth. This was a season to remember.
We took a very proactive and aggressive approach to retain Coach Willard, offering a significant contract extension and salary increase, new staff, and one of the highest revenue-share budgets in the B1G Conference. We had long and thoughtful conversations about the program and shared the same vision for Maryland Basketball. In the end, he made the choice that he felt was best for him and his family. On behalf of all of Terrapin Nation, we thank Coach Willard and his family for their service and wish them well.
A national search has already begun for a new head coach. We are working with urgency and thoroughness to find the next leader of our program, and we are confident that we will find a coach who will continue to build and grow the legacy of success of Maryland Basketball.
To our team, Derik, Malachi, Braden, Chance, DeShawn, Lukas, Rodney, Tafara, Ja’Kobi, Jahari, Ben, Jay, Selton, Jordan, and Juju, and coaches, Coach Cox, Coach Norris, Coach Manning, Coach Harris and Coach Petty: We thank you for making us all proud this season.
To our fans: Your support this season was incredible – from our home games at XFINITY Center to our postseason travels in Indianapolis, Seattle, and San Francisco. We thank each and every one of you for believing in the Terps.
Stay tuned for the next great chapter of Maryland Men’s Basketball.
Go Terps!
Darryll J. Pines,
President, University of Maryland
