Texas Tech University’s men’s basketball coach, Chris Beard, has resigned from his position after five years leading the team. The announcement came on April 1st, 2021, and has since sparked controversy after a Bible reference was included in his statement.

In his resignation letter, Coach Beard referenced Proverbs 16:3, which reads, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” The inclusion of this Bible verse has caused speculation about whether or not Beard’s resignation was related to his religious beliefs.

However, Beard’s statement also mentioned his desire to seek new challenges and opportunities, suggesting that his departure was not solely based on religious reasons. He thanked the university and its supporters for their support and credited his time at Texas Tech as the best five years of his professional life.

Beard’s tenure as head coach was marked by significant success, including leading the team to the NCAA championship game in 2019. Under his leadership, the Texas Tech basketball program has become one of the top in the country.

The news of Beard’s resignation has generated mixed reactions from fans and supporters. Some have praised him for his success and contributions to the program, while others have criticized him for leaving the team in the middle of a transition period.

Texas Tech University Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt released a statement on Beard’s resignation, thanking him for his contributions to the program and wishing him well in his future endeavors. Hocutt also acknowledged the mixed reactions to Beard’s departure and assured fans that the university would work to find a new head coach who would continue the program’s success.

The search for a new head coach is now underway, and there is no shortage of candidates. Texas Tech has a strong basketball tradition, and the university will undoubtedly attract top talent from around the country. The new head coach will have big shoes to fill, but Texas Tech fans are optimistic that the program will continue to thrive.

Chris Beard’s resignation as Texas Tech’s men’s basketball coach has generated both praise and criticism from fans and supporters. While the inclusion of a Bible verse in his statement has caused speculation about his religious beliefs, it is clear that his departure was driven by a desire for new challenges and opportunities. The university will now begin the search for a new head coach to continue the program’s success.