Terps Basketball Coach Gary Williams to Retire

Update, 6:00 p.m.: Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley has issued a statement following Thursday's announcement that UMd. men's basketball coach Gary Williams will retire after 22 seasons.

"I’d like to thank Gary Williams for over 20 years of dedication to the University of Maryland, College Park men’s basketball team and for his devotion to his alma mater," the statement reads. "Gary’s leadership and outstanding coaching and recruiting abilities have developed the talents and skills of some of today’s best athletes, and helped them to become great professionals and individuals with confidence and character – on and off the court."

 “In 2001, he led the Terps to their first Final Four in school history; and in 2002, they brought home an NCAA National Championship. Though it will be difficult to imagine men’s basketball at College Park without Gary Williams, we certainly wish him much success in the future.”

Original story, 4:57 p.m.: Gary Williams, coach of the University of Maryland men's basketball team, is retiring. 

Williams led the Terps through 22 seasons, 14 NCAA tournaments, one national title and a total of 461 wins.

"It's the right time," Williams said in a statement. "My entire career has been an unbelievable blessing. I am fiercely proud of the program we have built here. I couldn't have asked any more from my players, my assistant coaches, the great Maryland fans and this great university. Together, we did something very special here."

Williams will remain at UMd. as Assistant Athletic Director and Special Assistant to Kevin Anderson.

Williams will join Anderson and University President Dr. Wallace Loh at a press conference on Friday at 1 p.m. in the Comcast Center. The public is encouraged to attend.