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Social media reacts to the University of Maryland hiring its new Athletic Director

Originally posted on Maryland Terrapins on SI
By Trent Knoop | Last updated May 15, 2025 1:04 PM ET

The University of Maryland made it official on Thursday when it hired Jim Smith as the new Athletic Director, replacing Damon Evans.

"We are proud of the athletics tradition here at the University of Maryland and of the accomplishments of our coaches and student-athletes who represent the red, black, white and gold," said UMD President Darryll J. Pines. "As college athletics rapidly evolves, Jim brings valuable administrative and business experience, plus the energy, vision and passion to lead our athletics program to new levels of success and impact."

Smith has worked in athletics for more than two decades at both university and professional organizations, including the Atlanta Braves, the Ohio State University, Atlanta Falcons, AMB Sports & Entertainment, and the Columbus Crew among others.

Following his hire, social media had its input. Here are some of the best reactions we could find.

Hopefully James can get us the M Flag back. pic.twitter.com/XCFg6NVVRR
— Justin Z (@JayZMD) May 15, 2025

We got a money guy in there pic.twitter.com/zjTbOkKnPj
— Weezus Dangerously™ (@Weezus410) May 15, 2025

Definitely a reflection of the changing environment of college athletics.
— Scott Wachenheim (@CoachSWach) May 15, 2025

Did UMD FINALLY get it right this time after all these years of “Ready, fire, aim!” ???? …
— Chris Breslin (@flamingtarhead) May 15, 2025

Maryland is finalizing the hire of Atlanta Braves executive Jim Smith as its next athletic director, sources tell @YahooSports. Smith has spent time with the Falcons also and is a former Ohio State administrator with a background in revenue generation and fundraising.
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) May 15, 2025

Today is an exciting day in the next chapter of Maryland Athletics..

James E. Smith is the new Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics. Smith and will oversee the University’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics team of more… pic.twitter.com/OHrWViS7yi
— Cʜᴜᴄᴋ ᴅᴏᴜɢʟᴀs ✪ (@ChuckDouglas_) May 15, 2025

Maryland put its men's lacrosse coach on the AD search committee in the middle of his season. Now John Tillman tells The Diamondback he couldn't make any meetings, didn't vote and never met Jim Smith or saw his resume.

If that confuses you, you're not alone. https://t.co/Kibyk9aqbf
— Taylor Lyons (@taylorjlyons) May 15, 2025

This article first appeared on Maryland Terrapins on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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