NEW ROCHELLE, NY - Iona College men's basketball head coach Kevin Willard has announced his resignation after three seasons in New Rochelle. Willard will leave the Gaels to accept the head coach position at the BIG EAST's Seton Hall University.
"While we're disappointed to lose Kevin, we're happy for this career opportunity," said Director of Athletics Patrick Lyons. "We wish him nothing but the best of luck in his future endeavors."
"I have throughly enjoyed my time at Iona and I cannot thank Br. Liguori, Pat Lyons and the entire Iona community for the opportunity they have afforded me these past three years," said Willard. "The program is in a great position right now and I feel like the kids in the program will continue the unbelievable progress we've seen so far."
Willard posted a 45-48 overall record in three seasons at Iona. After leading the Gaels to a 10-win improvement from the year before he took over in 2007-08, the Maroon & Gold matched the win total in his second season. In 2009-10, Willard's Gaels' posted a 21-10 record, the 14th 20+ win season in school history. Iona's RPI improvement over the past three seasons was the highest in NCAA Division I. Willard was named the 2010 MAAC Coach of the Year for the team's performance.
A national search for a replacement will begin immediately.
"In order to preserve the integrity of the search, we will not comment on any candidacy until we are ready to announce a hiring." said Lyons.