UCF Vice President and Director of Athletics Danny White announced Thursday night that head men’s basketball coach Donnie Jones has been relieved of his duties, effective immediately.

“After a great deal of thought and deliberation, we have determined that a change in leadership for our men’s basketball program is necessary,” said White. “Donnie and his staff have been dedicated to ensuring our student-athletes become successful young men, and we are grateful for their hard work and dedication to UCF, our students and the entire Knights community over the past six years. However, our athletics department, university and community expect our men’s basketball program to compete for American Athletic Conference titles and make regular postseason appearances, and unfortunately, we have not reached these expectations.”

Jones compiled a record of 100-88* in his six seasons at the helm of the Knights and led the program to two postseason berths.

“I’d like to thank Dr. Hitt and the UCF community for all their support,” Jones said. “I’m extremely grateful for the young men I had a chance to learn from and help reach their dreams during my time at UCF.”

White informed Jones of his decision after Thursday night’s loss in the American Athletic Conference Championship in order to address the team before they left campus for the remainder of the UCF Spring Break.

White also said a national search for the Knights’ seventh head coach in program history will begin immediately.

“We’re going to move quickly to find the right coach to lead our program and bring championships to UCF.” White said. “We don’t have a set timeline but we’re going to be thorough and ensure we have the right person to lead our student-athletes.  I’d like to thank Donnie and his wife Michelle for their many positive contributions to UCF.”

* 2010-11 victories vacated due to NCAA sanctions

http://www.ucfknights.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/031016aaa.html