Mark Adams steps down as Texas Tech head coach

Mark Adams is out after two seasons as head coach at Texas Tech, the school announced on Wednesday. The 66-year old coach was suspended on Sunday as the school investigated claims of an “inappropriate, unacceptable, and racially insensitive comment” that he made to a player.

While the school’s inquiry has concluded that the comment was unintentional, Adams is resigning his position.

“My lifelong goal was to help and be a positive influence on my players, and to be a part of the Texas Tech men’s basketball team,” Adams said in a statement. “However, both the University and I believe this incident has become a distraction for the Texas Tech men’s basketball team and the University, which I care about so deeply.”

Adams led the Red Raiders to the Sweet Sixteen and a 27-10 record last year, but saw production fall off this year. The team got a few good home wins late but ultimately finished 9th in the Big 12 at 5-13.

Assistant coach Corey Williams served as interim head coach for Tech’s opening round Big 12 Tournament game on Wednesday. The Raiders lost 62-78 to West Virginia, ending their season at 16-16 overall.

credit to Texas Tech Athletics for the image