FAMU Athletic Director Derek Horne has issued a letter of nonreappointment to Eugene Harris, head coach of the Rattler Men’s Basketball Team.Harris, who is in the fourth year of his five-year contract, has been placed on administrative leave with pay. He makes $150,000 per year. Harris’ employment with the university will end on June 10, 2011.
“We have decided to move in a different direction,” said Horne. “We would like to thank Coach Harris for his effort in support of Rattler basketball.”
Harris has been at FAMU for four seasons and has amassed a record of 46 wins, and 80 losses. Harris has served as head coach of the men’s basketball program since 2007. Prior to accepting the FAMU appointment, Harris was a member of the men’s basketball staff at Georgia State University in Atlanta. He also served as coach at South Alabama (1983-1984), Clemson University (1984-1994), Auburn University (1994-2001) and the University of Alabama (2005-2006). He also served as Assistant Athletic Director at Auburn from 2001 to 2005.
“I support Mr. Horne in his decision,” said FAMU President James H. Ammons. “We want only the best for our student athletes and our program. We believe that this change will help us to meet the goals that we have set for the program.”
According to Horne, a search committee will be appointed immediately to begin a search for a new coach. Assistant Coach Maurice “Tony” Sheals will handle the day-to-day operations of the basketball team until a new coach is appointed.