U of M fires women's basketball coach Pam Borton

Pam Borton
Ex-University of Minnesota women's basketball coach Pam Borton.
Nam Y. Huh/AP

The University of Minnesota announced Friday that it has fired women's basketball coach Pam Borton.

The firing is effective immediately, Director of Athletics Norwood Teague said in a statement.

"Pam has had many successful seasons at the University of Minnesota, but we feel it is time to look at another leader to position this program for long-term success," Teague said.

The University says she'll receive a buyout of $325,000 dollars. Borton had two years left on her contract.

Borton coached the team for 12 seasons. She had an overall winning record with the team, although they've struggled in recent years. In a statement, she said she was grateful for her time at the university, which included six NCAA tournament appearances.

"I want to thank my players and staff over the years," Borton said. "We've accomplished a lot together and they have made the experience truly special."

Assistant coach Kelly Roysland will serve as interim head women's basketball coach while the university conducts a national search for a new permanent coach.

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