Just days after the men’s basketball team was eliminated from the Ohio Valley Conference tournament race, Eastern athletic director Barbara Burke announced that head men’s basketball coach Mike Miller’s contract would not be renewed.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank Mike Miller for his service to Eastern Illinois University and in particular to our men’s basketball program,” Burke said in a press release. “He is a quality individual who has worked extremely hard and dedicated many hours to our student-athletes and the Panther basketball program.”

Miller’s contract officially expires April 30.

Miller, who finished his seventh season as head coach, led the Panthers to an overall record of 12-17, with an OVC record of 5-11. The Panthers ended the season on an three-game losing streak. Miller failed to make the OVC tournament in the team’s previous two seasons, but did reach the tournament in 2009 and 2010.

Miller said in a press release he was thankful for the opportunity to lead the team.

“I appreciate the opportunity I was given to lead the program at Eastern Illinois and the support and friendships we have developed in the community,” he said. “I want to thank the members of my staff especially associate head coach Chad Altadonna who has worked tirelessly the last seven years to improve this program. I want to thank all the players who have played for us and represented the program.”

According to the press release, the search for Miller’s replacement will begin immediately. Altadonna, along with assistant coaches Geoff Alexander and Barron Thelmon, will be retained until a new head coach is hired.

Women’s basketball coach Brady Sallee declined to comment on the story. 

Dominic Renzetti can be reached at 581-7942 or [email protected]. 

Alex McNamee contributed to this story.