Everhart out as Duquesne's hoops coach

Mar 23, 2012 - 4:38 PM Pittsburgh, PA (Sports Network) - Duquesne relieved men's basketball coach Ron Everhart of his duties on Friday.

The Dukes posted a 16-15 record this season, one that came to an end with a loss to Massachusetts in the first round of the Atlantic 10 Championship. It marked the fifth time with Everhart as the bench boss the team dropped their opening game in the conference tournament.

"I appreciate all Ron has done for our men's basketball program," said Duquesne athletic director Greg Amodio. "He stepped into a difficult situation six years ago and was able to make Duquesne competitive in the Atlantic 10 Conference. Although the program has improved, our goal has always been to compete for the A-10 championship and consistently be in the hunt for high- level postseason play. I feel a change in leadership is necessary to help us refocus on that goal."

Under Everhart, the Dukes made their first postseason appearance since 1994 with a trip to the 2009 NIT.

"I want to thank Duquesne University for a great opportunity," said Everhart, who had two years remaining on his contract. "I am very proud of the significant improvements the program made in the past six years."

Everhart compiled a 99-89 record as Duquesne's head coach, including a 46-50 mark in Atlantic 10 play.