Boston College fires men's basketball coach Jim Christian

The Boston College Eagles men's basketball team has endured a pandemic-altered season to forget, one that includes the squad dropping 13 of 16 games. 

On Monday, the university confirmed that head coach Jim Christian has been relieved of his duties. 

Assistant Scott Spinelli will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the campaign. 

"I know that Jim gave everything that he had into leading our program and mentoring our student-athletes," athletic director Pat Kraft said in the prepared statement. "Ultimately, the program is not headed in the right direction and though I hesitate to make a mid-season coaching change in any sport, now is the right time for us to look forward. We wish Jim and his family all the best in their future endeavors and thank them for their service to Boston College." 

According to Jeff Borzello of ESPN, Boston College failed to finish above .500 in conference play in any of Christian's seven seasons as head coach. The Eagles went 78-132 overall and 26-94 in the conference under Christian.  

In a separate piece, Borzello offered a lengthy list of realistic candidates and also wishful potential hires for the opening. Michigan Wolverines assistant Howard Eisley "checks a lot of boxes," per Borzello.