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ATHENS, Ohio -- Ohio Director of Athletics Jim Schaus announced today that the contract of men's basketball head coach Saul Phillips will not be renewed.

"We are making a change in the leadership of our men's basketball program," said Schaus. "I do not believe that our men's basketball program, that has a rich tradition of excellence, is where we need to be in terms of consistent, on-court success."

Phillips' 2018-19 team finished 10th in Mid-American Conference play with a 6-12 record and went 14-17 overall. During his five seasons, Ohio was 40-50 in MAC play and 81-77 overall.

"I would like to thank Saul Phillips and his staff for their dedication and service," said Schaus. "They created a very positive culture for our student-athletes and did their jobs with the utmost integrity. They are quality people, and I wish them the very best in the future."

A national search for Phillips' successor will begin immediately.

"Rest assured that we are committed to excellence in our men's basketball program and will take the necessary steps to ensure future success," said Schaus. "I am confident that we will attract very strong interest in the position and will be able to hire an outstanding head coach and staff very soon. I want to thank our loyal fan base for their support of our men's basketball program. I am excited and optimistic about our future."

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