Matt Figger instructs the UTRGV Men’s Basketball Team during practice in September 2022. THE RIDER FILE PHOTO
Ali Halloum | THE RIDER
UTRGV Athletics has begun a national search for a new men’s basketball head coach after the department mutually agreed to part ways with Matt Figger, a news release states.
Vice President and Director of Athletics Chasse Conque announced the decision and coaching search today.
“We thank Coach Figger for his efforts and his contributions to our program over the last three years,” Conque was quoted as saying in the news release. “There is no doubt that his team made an impact on our efforts to #RallyTheValley. … We wish him well personally and professionally moving forward.”
Figger compiled a record of 29-65 over his three seasons as head coach. He was hired on March 29, 2021, after the death of head coach Lew Hill.
During Figger’s tenure, UTRGV led all NCAA Division I men’s basketball programs in community service hours last season and had 19 of his players earn a spot on the Athletics Director’s Honor Roll for having a semester GPA over 3.25.
“I wish to thank Athletics Director Conque, President Bailey, my staff and campus colleagues, and especially my players for the privilege to be the UTRGV head men’s basketball coach,” Figger is quoted as saying in the news release. “At this time, I have decided to pursue other professional opportunities.”
The Rider reached out to Jonah Goldberg, senior associate Athletic director for Communications and Championships, for comment. However, Athletics will not provide comment until a new coach is hired.
Matt Figger hands Renee Hill, wife of former UTRGV Men’s Basketball head coach Lew Hill, a jersey with the No. 3 on it prior to the start of a men’s basketball game in February 2022. Figger was hired in March 2021 after Hill’s death. THE RIDER FILE PHOTO
