Butler Basketball Coach Thad Matta Announces Retirement Thad Matta, the head coach of the Butler University Bulldogs, has announced his retirement from collegiate coaching after more than two decades of leading Division I programs. The decision comes after Matta completed his fourth season in his second stint as Butler’s head coach, marking the end of a storied career that spanned multiple schools and levels of competition. Matta will remain affiliated with the university as a special assistant to the president and athletic director, continuing to support the institution in a new capacity. In a statement, Matta reflected on his decision, stating, “After taking some time to reflect following the end of the season, I have decided that the time has come for me to step away from the sidelines.” He emphasized his deep connection to Butler, noting that his family’s love for the university brought him back to the program four years ago. “Butler has always meant more to us than just basketball,” he said, adding that his commitment to the school and its future remains unwavering. Matta expressed excitement about the program’s continued growth and its potential to compete at the highest levels of the Big East and nationally. Matta’s career record stands at 502 wins and 223 losses, with 13 appearances in the NCAA tournament. His tenure at Butler, which includes two separate stints as head coach, was highlighted by a 24-8 season in 2000-01 and a second-round NCAA tournament run. Before returning to Butler, Matta built a reputation as one of the most consistent coaches in college basketball during his time at Xavier and Ohio State. At Xavier, he led the Musketeers to three consecutive NCAA tournament appearances, including an Elite Eight run in 2004.#big_east #butler_bulldogs #thad_matta #grant_leiendecker #butler_university
