Ben Braun resigns as head coach of Rice University

Following reports that Ben Braun was fired as head coach Thursday, Rice athletics director Joe Karlgaard revealed Braun actually resigned from his position. 

"Ben and I met this morning to review the program and at that time he expressed to me his decision to resign as our head coach," Karlgaard said, via the school's official website. 

Braun joined the Owls in 2008, and compiled a 63-128 record in six seasons with the program. Following the announcement of his resignation, Braun released a statement explaining his decision to leave the team.

"I thought it was in our program's best interest that I step down as Rice's head basketball coach. I want to thank Rice University for the opportunity to coach our team for the last six years. The players, coaches and staff have worked diligently to represent Rice with class and dignity. I am proud we were able to take our program to the postseason tournament as well as achieve academic excellence off the court. I believe both the returning players and those currently signed for next year will form the nucleus for a very solid future. The team will always have my support."