Coastal Carolina has scheduled a press conference for 1:30pm today, where head men’s basketball coach Cliff Ellis is expected to announce his retirement. These rumors started circulating early last evening, and seem to have been confirmed by Jeff Goodman:

Ellis, who turned 78 yesterday, has been the head coach at CCU for the past 17 seasons 297-228 (.556). He also served as the head coach at Auburn (1994-04), Clemson (1984-94), South Alabama (1976-84), and Cumberland (1972-75). His team is currently 3-5 this season.

Associate head Coach Benny Moss, who is expected to be named as the interim head coach, has been on Ellis’ staff for the past 13 seasons. Prior to joining the the Chanticleers staff, Moss was the head coach at UNC Wilmington (2006-10).

More on this when it becomes official later today.