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Maryland basketball assistant coach Dalonte Hill has resigned following his third DUI arrest since 2008, the school announced in a release. Director of Basketball Operations Dustin Clark has reportedly been promoted to HIll's position, while Maryland legend Juan Dixon has been hired as a special assistant to the head coach.
Hill's resignation was expected following his arrest, but it is an important step for the Terrapins. It means Maryland will not have to pay a buy-out to Hill, who was making over $300,000 per year with the Terps.
Dustin Clark has basically been the third assistant since Hill took his leave of absence, recruiting and such, so this is a mere formality.
— Alex Prewitt (@alex_prewitt) November 27, 2013
Second, it helps Turgeon's image with local AAU folks, the type with whom Hill was hired to help establish relationships.
— Alex Prewitt (@alex_prewitt) November 27, 2013
Clark came over to Maryland with Turgeon from Texas A&M, and is considered to have a very bright future in the coaching profession.
"Dustin is very deserving of this promotion," Turgeon said. "He has been an integral member of my staff at both Maryland and Texas A&M. Dustin is a tireless worker and talented coach who will thrive in his new role and help our program continue its ascension to the next level."
The more notable news for most Maryland fans, most likely, is the hiring of Dixon, generally considered one of the greatest Maryland players of all time.
Juan Dixon's duties will include mentorship and film breakdown. He will not recruit on the road.
— Alex Prewitt (@alex_prewitt) November 27, 2013
Dixon was thought to have a poor relationship with the current coaching staff following drama over Roddy Peters's uniform number, but it would appear that was over-dramatized.
"We're excited to welcome Juan back to College Park," Turgeon said. "He is one of the most decorated and celebrated player in Terrapin history. Juan's diverse experience playing professionally in the NBA combined with his passion for Maryland basketball makes him a very strong addition to our program."
Hill is one of the best recruiters in the country, and helped bring Dion Wiley to College Park. Luckily for Maryland, current Maryland assistant coach Bino Ranson is also an adept recruiter, so we'll have to see how much Hill's loss hurts in that area. It seems having someone like Dixon around can only help the program, however, and Clark's no slouch in the recruiting arena.
For those asking how Hill's departure and Clark's elevation affects recruiting, Clark was the point person for Dion Wiley. He'll be fine.
— Alex Prewitt (@alex_prewitt) November 27, 2013
