AUSTIN, Texas (BCSNN) — The University of Texas has made a significant change in its men's basketball program. After parting ways with head coach Rodney Terry, the Longhorns are appointing Sean Miller, formerly of Xavier University, as his successor.

The decision to dismiss Terry came after a challenging 2024-25 season, during which the Longhorns finished with a 19-16 record and managed only six wins in SEC play. Despite leading Texas to the NCAA Tournament, the team’s early exit in the First Four against Miller’s Xavier squad underscored the program's struggles. Athletic Director Chris Del Conte announced the move on Sunday, citing the need for a fresh direction to elevate the Longhorns' competitiveness in the SEC and on the national stage.

"This was a very difficult decision and one that we put a great deal of thought, consideration and discussion into as we evaluated where we are as a men's basketball program. My philosophy has always been to wait until the end of the season and review every facet of our program before making any final decisions, and we've been doing that since our heartbreaking First Four loss in the NCAA Tournament. In looking at everything over the past three seasons, our first year in the SEC this past year, and where we're headed in the future, Coach Terry and I have decided it is in the best interest of The University of Texas to move in a different direction. Coach Terry has led our program in a first-class manner, and we've accomplished some great things. He did a tremendous job in his first season helping to manage a very difficult situation, and we're truly grateful for that. We appreciate all he's done for our student-athletes and program and wish him the best in the future."

Chris Del Conte, UT Vice President and Lois and Richard Folger Athletics Director

Terry, who initially took over as interim head coach in 2022 following Chris Beard's departure, was promoted to the permanent role after guiding the team to the Elite Eight in 2023. However, the Longhorns failed to sustain that success in subsequent seasons, prompting the university to pay a $5.4 million buyout to terminate his contract.

Sean Miller, 56, brings a wealth of experience to Austin, having led Xavier to a 22-12 record this past season and beating the Horns in the First Four - in case we hadn't mentioned that. This marks Miller's second departure from Xavier, where he has compiled an impressive coaching record over eight seasons. He is also known for his tenure at Arizona, where he achieved six Sweet 16 appearances and three Elite Eight finishes before departing in 2021 amid NCAA investigations. Miller was cleared of direct involvement in the allegations and returned to coaching at Xavier in 2022.

Miller inherits a program with significant resources, including the state-of-the-art Moody Center and a robust donor base. His appointment signals Texas' ambition to establish itself as a powerhouse in the SEC and beyond.

The Longhorns will look to Miller to build on their storied basketball tradition and guide the team to new heights in the coming seasons. For now, check out a quick breakdown of Sean Miller's coaching history.