Oregon Public Broadcasting

The University of Oregon men's basketball program is starting a search for a new head coach. Tuesday, University officials announced they would not renew Ernie Kent's contract.“You may find a better basketball coach, but I don't think you find anybody,”said an emotional Ernie Kent to reporters at MacArthur court. “That has the passion and love that I have for this University.”The men's basketball team had a disappointing season, finishing 16 and 16 and did not get a bid in the NCAA or NIT tournaments.Athletic Director Mike Bellotti said the decision was based on the program's performance on the court. “If you look at the last five to six years, we need to do a better job. And as we move forward into the arena, we need to re-energize our fan base and attempt to expand ticket sales. And those are all factors. We've had a decline in wins and a decline in attendance," he said.Next season the Ducks will move from Mac Court to a new arena currently under construction.Ernie Kent coached the Ducks for 13 seasons, and will walk away with a $1.15 million severance package. The rest of his coaching staff will be released as well unless the new coach wants to keep them on. Kent says plans to coach again.