On March 10, ETSU announced Desmond Oliver, the head men’s basketball coach, would not return next season.
Per Oliver’s coaching agreement released by ETSU, he had signed onto a five-year agreement set to officially end on April 2026. The agreement also stated since Oliver was terminated before March 31, 2023, he is set to receive a termination payment of $400,000. This amount can also be reduced based on accrued personal leave and will be paid in equal monthly installments until the end of the term of agreement.
“The parties recognize and agree that the University retains the right to terminate Coach without cause as a result of University’s dissatisfaction with Coach’s performance or for any reason which does not constitute termination for cause,” the agreement read. “If termination occurs without cause, the benefits owed to the Coach shall cease on the date of termination and the University will pay an amount to the Coach pursuant to the [schedule].”
Joe Hugley will serve as the interim head coach while the search begins for a new coach.
“I met with Coach Oliver today, and we discussed the program is not meeting the expectations of the Athletics Department.” said Dr. Richard Sander, director of ETSU Intercollegiate Athletics. “We feel that parting ways is the best thing for our men’s basketball program and our student-athletes. We wish Coach Oliver the best in his future endeavors.”
Desmond ended his time as head coach at ETSU with a 27-37 overall record across two seasons.
