OFFICIAL: Marks fired at UTPA

University of Texas-Pan American men’s basketball head coach Ryan Marks’ annual contract will not be renewed following its expiration at the end of March, UTPA Director of Athletics Chris King announced Monday. Marks recently completed his fourth year with the Broncs.

Marks compiled an overall record of 39-89 and a Great West Conference mark of 16-26 over four years.

“Ryan led the program during an extremely difficult period," King said. "I appreciate and thank him for his efforts, but after careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to make a change in leadership. The decision comes after a thorough assessment of our current program and my expectations for the future.”

A search for Marks’ replacement will begin immediately.

“When I got here four years ago, the challenge was to take us out of the probation phase and improve performance on the court, as well as in the classroom,” Marks said. “Our staff has tried to do that to the best of our ability and I feel good about where things can go forward from here as UTPA basketball heads into the WAC.

“We’ve made some wonderful friends during our time here and will always be appreciative for the support that we’ve had from the community.”

UTPA’s yearly records to date over the past four years:

2009-10: 6-27, 4-8 GWC

2010-11: 6-25, 2-10 GWC

2011-12: 11-21, 5-5 GWC

2012-13: 16-16, 5-3 GWC