Washington Huskies Take Brave Step in Firing Lorenzo Romar

Given the financial ramifications and the Michael Porter Jr. factor, the Washington Huskies make the surprising decision to part ways with Lorenzo Romar.

No one saw this coming – at least if the recent speculation was to be believed. Regardless, the Washington Huskies have taken the brave step of firing Lorenzo Romar, thus ending a relationship that lasted 15 seasons.

On the surface at least, this decision may appear anything but brave. After all, Romar had just completed the worst season of his tenure as Huskies’ head coach.

This included his fewest ever total wins and a 2-16 conference record, which was the school’s worst since the Pac-12 went to 18 games in 1978-79. In addition, he missed the NCAA tournament for the sixth consecutive season.

However, this doesn’t change the fact the Huskies are taking a massive gamble in getting rid of the 58-year old. For a start, this move will cost them $3.2 million, which is a substantial amount for a program currently operating at a loss.

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There is also the not-so-small matter of Michael Porter Jr., who is widely regarded as the top prospect in the country. With Romar now gone, there is every chance his good friend Porter Sr. will also leave, meaning his son could now sign elsewhere.

Of course, if you take these two factors into account, it speaks volumes about the decision to fire Romar. For the Huskies to make such a move, gives some indication of how dire the situation must have become during a disastrous 2016-17 campaign.

Not that this should take away from anything the South Gate, California native achieved during his time in Seattle. He helped rejuvenate the program, as the Huskies went to six March Madness tournaments, which included two appearances in the Sweet 16.

As reported by Christian Caple of The News Tribune, Romar released a statement through the school:

"“As a former student-athlete, and an alumnus of the University of Washington, this is definitely not an easy day for me. I was really looking forward to coaching our team next year and beyond. However, God had a different plan. I am proud of a lot of things we were able to accomplish in the 15 years that we were here. I want to thank all of the coaches, players and staff who played a part in that success. I will always support the University of Washington, and pull for the Huskies.”"

Personally, while entirely understanding the decision, I was saddened by the firing of Romar. Like most people, I found him to be all class, particularly when he took the time to sit down for an exclusive interview prior to the season.

Overall, the three-time Pac-12 Coach of the Year finishes his time with a 298-195 record. He ranks second all-time for wins by a Huskies’ coach and his achievements will always be fondly remembered, despite how things turned sour towards the end.

Next: 3 Reasons Signing Eddie Lacy is a Good Move

Taking everything into account, what’s your position on the decision to fire Romar? Do you agree with what the Huskies did, or do you believe they should have kept him around for at least one more season? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.