Mark Turgeon is no longer the head coach at the University of Maryland. In a stunning turn of events Friday afternoon, the school announced that the two sides had agreed to part ways.
Turgeon was coaching in his 11th season at Maryland. He succeeded Hall of Fame head coach Gary Williams in 2011. Williams won a national championship at Maryland in 2002.
“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,” said Damon Evans, Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics. “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.”
“After several in depth conversations with Damon, I have decided that the best thing for Maryland Basketball, myself and my family is to step down, effective immediately, as the head coach of Maryland Basketball,” said Turgeon. “I have always preached that Maryland Basketball is bigger than any one individual. My departure will enable a new voice to guide the team moving forward.
“Maryland Basketball has been my passion and focus for the last 10 seasons, and I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished. It is through the combined effort and commitment from our coaches and players, both past and present, that we have sustained consistent success in a sport that is ultra-competitive. I am extremely grateful to have worked with each and every one of you.
“It has truly been an honor to be the men’s basketball coach at the University of Maryland.”
The Terps are 5-3 this season and coming off a loss at home to Virginia Tech. As he came off the court after the game, Turgeon was showered with many boos. Last month, Maryland lost at home to George Mason for the first time in history.
In 10+ seasons at Maryland, Turgeon compiled a 226-116 (.661) record. His overall record as a head coach is 476-275 (.634).
According to the press release, a national search will begin following the end of this season.
Maryland Athletics and Mark Turgeon mutually agree to part ways. https://t.co/gJqELsJb1J
— Maryland Terrapins (@umterps) December 3, 2021
