University of Rhode Island men's basketball coach Jim Baron was fired Sunday after 11 years and a 7-24 season.
Athletic director Thorr Bjorn did not give a reason for the dismissal on the university's website. Baron had two years remaining on his contract, and a nationwide coaching search will begin immediately.
''I would like to thank Jim Baron for his 11 years of committed service to the University of Rhode Island,'' Bjorn said in a statement. ''During his tenure at URI, Jim represented himself, his family and our men's basketball program with the utmost class and professionalism.''
The 57-year-old Baron finished his 11-year run with a 184-166 overall record and an 83-93 mark in Atlantic 10 conference games, including 4-12 this season.
The Rams won 20 or more games six times during Baron's tenure and played in the National Invitation Tournament five times.
''I am comfortable with everything I was able to give to the program and to coach some fine young men,'' Baron said in the release announcing his dismissal.
Bjorn said no details about the search will be made until a new coach has been appointed.
The school said it will pay the rest of Baron's contract from ''externally generated'' revenue. The university did not elaborate.
State money will not be used to cover the obligation and student tuition and fees will not be affected, the university said.
