University of Texas fires Rodney Terry after First Four loss to Xavier

Terry had initially led Texas on an improbable Elite Eight run that earned him a five-year contract.

AUSTIN, Texas — After a disappointing end to the season, the University of Texas has parted ways with head men’s basketball coach Rodney Terry. The decision comes just days after the Longhorns’ 86-80 loss to Xavier in the First Four round of the NCAA Tournament on Wednesday night.

Terry, who took over as interim head coach in 2023 following Chris Beard’s dismissal, had initially led Texas on an improbable Elite Eight run that earned him a five-year contract. 

However, concerns over the program’s trajectory have led to his dismissal with three years remaining on his deal, which paid him $3 million annually. According to sources close to the situation, Terry will receive a $5.4 million contract settlement.

Texas’ decline in performance over the past three seasons was a key factor in the university’s decision. 

After posting a 29-9 record (12-6 Big 12) and making an Elite Eight appearance in 2023, the Longhorns regressed to a 21-13 record (9-9 Big 12) and a Round of 32 exit in 2024. The 2025 season marked an even steeper drop, with Texas finishing 19-16 (6-12 SEC) in its first year in the conference before bowing out in the First Four.

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