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La Salle is parting ways with head coach Dr. John Giannini after 14 seasons, the school announced on Friday.
Dr. John Giannini, head coach of the Explorers men’s basketball team, is stepping down after 14 seasons. He will be forever remembered for the 2013 Sweet Sixteen appearance and his focus on student-athlete academic success. Coach G, thank you and we wish you nothing but the best! pic.twitter.com/Grw1AkAgYM
— La Salle University (@LaSalleUniv) March 23, 2018
The move comes after a 13-19 season — the third in a row for the Explorers without a winning record.
“John is a great guy, always with the best interests of his student-athletes at heart, and he did his very best to advance the men’s basketball program at La Salle,” said Bill Bradshaw, La Salle’s Athletic Director. “We wish John and his family nothing but the best, and he will be remembered for his contributions to La Salle, on and off the court.”
Since taking the job in 2004, Giannini has gone 212-226 with an NIT appearance in 2012 and a memorable Sweet 16 run in 2013. That year, the Explorers were a 13 seed and defeated Boise State in the First Four, then Kansas State, and Ole Miss during the tournament’s first weekend.
“I am truly blessed to have the relationships, challenges, and achievements that come from 29 years of being a head coach. In my time, I have witnessed hundreds of coaching changes involving many terrific coaches and schools,” said Giannini. “It is difficult to admit this but I have given every effort possible for success and I have received nothing but support and encouragement from Bill and President Hanycz. Greater things may be accomplished for this storied program and great university with the approach of a new coach. I am forever grateful, especially to my loyal staff and dedicated student-athletes. I look forward to my next challenge and La Salle’s future success.”
In terms of what’s next for the program, ESPN’s Jeff Goodman has floated one name out that would make a splash on the mid-major landscape:
Guess it’s official. Don’t be surprised to see former Explorer standout Tim Legler in the mix for this one. Has expressed interest to get into college coaching. https://t.co/8FcJb2OgrE
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanESPN) March 23, 2018
Tim Legler played for La Salle from 1984-88, scoring 1,699 career points and making the All-MAAC team twice.