Marist College announced a change in leadership in the men’s basketball program on Monday. Mike Maker, head coach of the Marist men’s basketball program, has been relieved of his duties.

This comes just days after AD Tim Murray told Center Field  “At this point right now, yes, absolutely,” that Maker would return next season.

“I have the utmost respect for Mike in the way he led our men’s basketball program,” Marist Director of Athletics Tim Murray said. “From the day he stepped on campus, Mike guided our program with class and integrity. The program accurately represented our expectations in the classroom and community, but ultimately we had to make a decision that was in the long-term best interest of the team.”

A national search for a new head coach will begin immediately.

“Marist strives for excellence both on the basketball court and in the classroom,” Murray said. “Our goal is to compete for a MAAC championship each year.”