Ferry era ends in firing

Bry McDermott | Asst. Photo Editor Head coach Jim Ferry looks on as his team struggles in a 76-57 loss to the University of Dayton Flyers at PPG Paints Arena on January 14. The loss pushed the Red & Blue to 9-9 on the season.
Bry McDermott | Asst. Photo Editor Head coach Jim Ferry looks on as his team struggles in a 76-57 loss to the University of Dayton Flyers at PPG Paints Arena on January 14. The loss pushed the Red & Blue to 9-9 on the season.
Bry McDermott | Asst. Photo Editor
Head coach Jim Ferry looks on as his team struggles in a 76-57 loss to the University of Dayton Flyers at PPG Paints Arena on January 14. The loss pushed the Red & Blue to 9-9 on the season.

By Andrew Holman | Sports Editor

Duquesne University Athletics Director Dave Harper decided Monday to oust Jim Ferry as the head coach of the Duquesne men’s basketball program.

He spent five years in command of the Dukes, but left with just a 22-69 mark against Atlantic 10 competition and a 60-97 record overall.

“In consultation with President Ken Gormley, we have decided to make a change in leadership for the men’s basketball program at Duquesne University,” Harper said in a release. “I would like to thank Jim Ferry his efforts and work the last five years. Jim is a great person and we wish him the best with his future endeavors.”

Ferry coached a pair of NCAA Tournament teams at his former school, LIU Brooklyn, but was unable to successfully rebuild the program at Duquesne.

The search to replace Ferry will begin immediately, according to Harper. But, the Red & Blue will have to wait and see if key players such as Mike Lewis II, Isiaha Mike and Tarin Smith stick around, or if they will use the Ferry firing as a reason to take their talents elsewhere.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.