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North Texas fired head coach Tony Benford

Assistant coach Tony Benford

SEATTLE - FEBRUARY 8: Assistant coach Tony Benford of Arizona State communicates from the sideline during the game against Washington at Bank of America Arena on February 8, 2003 in Seattle, Washington. Arizona State defeated Washington 79-77. (Photo by Otto Greule/Getty Images)

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North Texas announced on Sunday night that head coach Tony Benford has been fired.

“After spending this season evaluating our men’s basketball program, we have determined that a change in leadership is necessary,” athletics director Wren Baker said in a release sent out by the program. “Tony and his staff have worked tirelessly for five seasons to help our student-athletes grow academically, socially and competitively. I am appreciative of those efforts. However, I believe we can compete for championships and, unfortunately, we have fallen short of those expectations. This is a highly attractive job that is located in one of the most talent-rich areas of the country and, in my opinion, the best region of the country to live in. I couldn’t be more excited about the future of the program.”

Benford was 62-95 in five seasons with the Mean Green, going 30-60 in league play and failing to finish above .500 in any year with the program. This past season, UNT went 8-22 and failed to qualify for the Conference USA tournament.