Wake Forest Athletics
Dave Odom To Leave Wake Forest
4/10/2001 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
April 10, 2001
Reaction from Wake Forest Athletic Director Ron Wellman on the resignation of head basketball coach Dave Odom:
"I have a great appreciation for the job that Dave Odom has done at Wake Forest University. He will certainly be remembered as one of our great coaches.
"Under his direction, we have averaged more than 20 wins per season over the last decade. They have won -- and lost -- with dignity. His players have always represented Wake Forest with class.
"Without a doubt, he will enjoy great success at the University of South Carolina and I wish him only the very best."
Wellman on a search for the next head coach:
"I know that the fans, alumni and media have numerous questions about our search for a new head coach. We have no timetable, but will take the time necessary to hire the best available coach. As with any opening that might occur, I have a short list of candidates. It is very early in the process and those individuals will not be identified.
"The first item on my agenda is to meet with the players and assistant coaches. I will do that when I return to campus today or first thing on Wednesday."
Statement from Dave Odom:
"With every beginning, comes an end and although today is my last day in an official capacity at Wake Forest, my feelings for the University and the basketball program will continue to grow. I have nothing but wonderful memories of my time at Wake Forest, my experience and my relationships with everyone that has so positively effected my life and the lives of my family. I particularly want to thank President Hearn, who supported me and our program with great energy, Dr. Gene Hooks, who hired me and has continued to be a friend, and Ron Wellman, whom I've had the privilege to work with for the last eight and one-half years and has worked diligently to help me improve our basketball program in every possible way."
