It takes a big man to admit he is wrong, and Oregon State Athletic Director should be walking taller today as he faced the media and announced he has fired Men’s head basketball coach Craig Robinson.
DeCarolis admitted that he made a mistake and was looking through ‘orange colored’ glasses when he confirmed Robinson would return to the bench 5 weeks ago.
In the wake of 3 players transferring and leaving the program since Robinson’s confirmation, DeCarolis gave it further objective consideration and decided the embattled Beaver program needed a “fresh start.”
DeCarolis expressed his goal is to find a coach that can win the “right way”, and one that can win a press conference. He did not mention any possible candidates, and he added the school would most likely not hire a search firm.
DeCarolis stated the University would pay off Robinson the 38 months remaining on his contract with roughly $4.2 million being owed. It is not a lump-sum payment and has mitigating factors to the deal.
And, the OSU AD was emphatic that no donors or boosters/alumns effected his decision, or that they would help with the settlement of the contract.
Robinson compiled a 93-104 record in 6 seasons, but never made the NCAA Tournament.
DeCarolis met with the remaining members off the team this morning, and has not spoken to Robinson or his assistants personally as they were all out on the road recruiting.
Hear today’s media conference with OSU Athletic Director Bob DeCarolis.
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