NEW YORK — Jim Engles, the head coach of Columbia University’s men’s basketball team, has announced his resignation. This decision follows a challenging season for the team, which culminated in a 1-13 record in the Ivy League. Despite a promising start with eight consecutive wins in nonconference play, the Lions concluded the season with a 12-15 record, marking the eighth consecutive losing season during Engles’ tenure.
Engles expressed his gratitude towards Columbia, stating, “Columbia has been an integral part of my life, and I have invested everything in striving to enhance this program. While we didn’t fulfill our ultimate aspirations, I’m proud of the environment we’ve nurtured and the student-athletes who have matured both on and off the court. I am thankful to Athletic Director Peter Pilling for his unwavering support over the years, and I’m confident that the program’s future is promising.”
The Lions achieved a victory in the CollegeInsider.com postseason tournament in 2016 under the guidance of Kyle Smith, but the momentum did not continue in the following seasons. Since the inception of the Ivy League’s conference tournament for its top four teams in 2017, Columbia remains the only men’s team that has yet to qualify.
“We are appreciative of Jim’s leadership throughout his time at Columbia,” said Peter Pilling, the athletic director. “Jim is not only a remarkable individual but also someone who has devoted a substantial effort toward achieving success here. We extend our best wishes to Jim and his family.”
Columbia’s search for a new head coach will begin shortly as they look to bring fresh energy and drive towards achieving future successes for their men’s basketball program.
