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Sean Miller Facing Backlash for Leaving Xavier Again
Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Sean Miller is no stranger to controversy, and his latest move has reignited criticism. The veteran coach is leaving Xavier for the second time, this time to take the reins at Texas as the Longhorns' new head basketball coach. The decision comes just days after Miller's Musketeers knocked Texas out of the NCAA Tournament in a thrilling First Four matchup. While the move has sparked excitement in Austin, it has left Xavier fans feeling betrayed.

Miller's departure marks the end of his second stint at Xavier, where he had rebuilt the program over the past three seasons. Despite leading the Musketeers to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run in 2023, his decision to leave has drawn sharp criticism. Many fans and analysts have pointed out that Miller had signed a contract extension with Xavier just two years ago, raising questions about his loyalty to the program.

Adding fuel to the fire is the irony of Miller joining the very team his Musketeers eliminated from the tournament. Social media has been ablaze with reactions, with some fans jokingly dubbing it "If you can't beat 'em, hire 'em." Others have expressed frustration, accusing Miller of prioritizing personal ambition over program stability.

As Miller begins his tenure at Texas, he faces the challenge of winning over a new fanbase while dealing with the backlash from his departure. Whether he can turn the Longhorns into a powerhouse remains to be seen, but one thing is certain, his move has left a lasting impression on college basketball.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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