Southern Miss coach resigns

"I’m thankful for the opportunity that I’ve had here at Southern Miss, " Green said. "I’ve been blessed in that I’ve had a dream come true. I would like to thank all of our fans for their support of the basketball program and for their support of me personally. I wish the university and our athletic programs the very best, and I would like to thank all the coaches, and staff members who have been so helpful and supportive. And, most of all, I wish the very best for all the players who have been a such a meaningful part of the program during my tenure and for what they have meant to me."

Green was named head coach at Southern Miss in March of 1996 following assistant coaching positions at Iowa State, Alabama, Texas A&M, and Idaho. During his eight-year tenure at Southern Miss, the Golden Eagles posted a mark of 123-109.

"James is a quality person," said athletic director Richard Giannini. "In a very competitive Conference USA, he led the team to a conference championship and two NIT appearances. He has been a leader off the court, as well, achieving high graduation rates among his student athletes."

Jeff Norwood, associate head coach, will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

With a 13-13 record (6-9 C-USA), the Golden Eagles will wrap up their regular season slate Saturday at Reed Green Coliseum.