Here’s what Hubert Davis, North Carolina officials said after parting ways

After the University of North Carolina announced Tuesday night that it has parted ways with head men’s basketball coach Hubert Davis — a decision rumored for days — the UNC athletic department issued a statement saying a recommendation for “a leadership change in its men’s basketball program” was made by athletic director Bubba Cunningham and executive associate athletic director Steve Newmark, and accepted by chancellor Lee H. Roberts.

Soon after the news broke around 9 p.m., Davis posted a statement on his Instagram, writing he was “let go” by the university.

Details of the separation were not immediately released, though Davis has roughly $5.3 million in guaranteed money remaining on his contract, per buyout terms.

What did Hubert Davis say after being let go?

Hubert Davis’ statement, via Instagram:

Tonight, I was let go by the University of North Carolina - Chapel HIll. My desire was to continue to coach here. This opportunity has truly been such a blessing. I thank Jesus literally every day for giving me the opportunity, relationships and experiences with the kids and my staff. I am very proud of what we were able to accomplish together. My goal is to coach again in the very near future.

What did UNC say about releasing Hubert Davis?

The statement from the university:

The University of North Carolina has made a leadership change in its men’s basketball program. Hubert Davis, who has served as head coach for five seasons, will not return to coach the Tar Heels. The recommendation was made by Director of Athletics Bubba Cunningham and Executive Associate Athletic Director Steve Newmark, who will transition to AD on July 1, and accepted by Chancellor Lee H. Roberts today.

“We appreciate all that Hubert has done for Carolina as a player, assistant coach, head coach and community leader — he has helped make special memories we will never forget,” Cunningham said. “This was not an easy decision because of Hubert’s tremendous character and all he has given to the program, but we must move forward in a way that allows our team to compete more consistently at an elite level.”

Newmark added: “Hubert cares deeply for our University, and it has been inspiring to watch him instill that love and Tar Heel tradition into the players he has coached. Chancellor Roberts, Bubba and I join all of the Carolina community in thanking Hubert and his family for all they have done for UNC.”

UNC will honor the terms of Davis’ contract.

A national search is underway for the Tar Heels’ next head coach. Cunningham and Newmark are leading the search and Carolina has hired executive search firm Turnkey ZRG to assist. Cunningham and Newmark also will consult with an advisory group comprised of a key stakeholders including former players, former coaches and supporters of UNC Athletics.”

Davis played for the Tar Heels from 1988-92 and 12 seasons in the NBA. He was an assistant coach under head coach Roy Williams for nine years from 2012-21, helping UNC win the national title in 2017. He became Carolina’s head coach in April 2021 following Williams’ retirement.

Comment from Chancellor Lee Roberts:

Roberts spoke to a group of reporters ahead of Wednesday morning’s Board of Trustees meeting, calling Hubert Davis and his wife, Leslie, “two of the finest people on the planet.”

“Carolina will always love them,” Roberts said. “We can’t thank (them) enough for everything they’ve done for our legendary basketball program and our incomparable university.”

This story was originally published March 24, 2026 at 10:47 PM.