Damon Evans Departs Maryland for SMU Athletic Director Role

SMU hires Evans to lead its athletic program as Maryland faces leadership uncertainty and basketball coach Kevin Willard voices concerns over program support.

Damon Evans has officially left his position as Maryland's athletic director to accept a six-year deal with SMU, aligning with SMU's strategy to strengthen its athletics following its move to the ACC.
Maryland basketball coach Kevin Willard has not signed a contract extension, citing dissatisfaction with program support and ongoing negotiations impacted by Evans' departure.
Evans' tenure at Maryland included major facility investments but was marked by financial challenges, including a $6.8 million deficit as recently as 2022.
Willard has publicly criticized Maryland's NIL funding and operational constraints, highlighting broader struggles within the university's athletic department to compete in the Big Ten.
SMU's hiring of Evans reflects its ambition to secure a competitive position in college athletics, backed by significant booster funding and strategic investments.