Following up on some DIRT that HoopDirt.com first reported yesterday…

Officials at Missouri State University-West Plains have officially announced the resignation of Grizzly Basketball Head Coach Chris Popp.

His resignation is effective immediately, university officials said.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve as this program’s head basketball coach,” Popp said. “This is a great place in many ways. The people I have had the pleasure of working with are second to none. Dr. (Angela) Totty (dean of student services/athletic director) has been unwavering in her support, along with so many others on campus.

“My coaches and players have worked extremely hard to do what is asked and have represented this program well,” he continued. “I cannot thank them enough for all they have done for me personally.

“This is a personal decision I feel is necessary for reasons not related to basketball, nor does it in any way reflect how I feel about this community,” he added. “The support I have felt from the people in West Plains, in good times and tough times, has been impressive. That is especially true of the Grizzly Booster Club. I wish nothing but the best for this program, community and institution moving forward.”

“We thank Coach Popp for his work with the Grizzly Basketball program, and wish him well in his future endeavors,” Chancellor Shirley Lawler said. 

University officials have agreed to pay out the remaining term of his contract, which ends June 30.

https://msuwpgrizzlies.com/sports/mbkb/2019-20/releases/20200304kzxjjb