SAN DIEGO (CNS) - The University of San Diego fired men's basketball head coach Bill Grier Monday after a tumultuous eight seasons.
"Bill, his staff and their families have represented the university well and we appreciate all of their contributions over the years," Athletic Director Ky Snyder said. "We'll begin conducting a national search immediately."
Grier, who previously was on the coaching staff at Gonzaga, led the Toreros to the West Coast Conference tournament championship and a stunning NCAA first-round upset of Connecticut in his first season.
His tenure, in which he compiled a record of 117-144 overall, and 51-73 in the WCC, was marred by a point-shaving scheme that resulted in star former point guard Brandon Johnson pleading guilty to conspiracy. Johnson, who was not recruited by Grier, was sentenced to six months in prison.
A former assistant coach Thaddeus "T.J." Brown, was sentenced to one year in prison for his role. No evidence was presented that Grier knew anything about the scheme.
"I want to thank President (Mary) Lyons, Ky Snyder and the University of San Diego for the tremendous opportunity to serve such an outstanding academic institution," Grier said. "I also want to thank my staff and our players for their efforts and contributions. I'm more disappointed than anyone that we didn't win more games, but I know we did things the right way."
